Michigan Football: 3 Takeaways from Wolverines victory in “The Game”

3. Ohio State could not match Michigan football’s physicality

There is an old saying, “go with what brought you to the dance.” That is exactly what Michigan did. Many in the college football world thought that this Michigan team was not only Harbaugh’s best, but that the Wolverines could also have a chance to win the game.

That could be correct on both counts. Ohio State had no answer for the Michigan running game. The Wolverines, led by Hasan Haskins, ran for 297 yards and all six of Michigan’s touchdowns. Haskins ran for 169 yards and five touchdowns.

The Wolverines also dominated on the defensive trenches as well. Michigan made it difficult for the Buckeyes to go with what brought them to the dance. Ohio State could not sustain drives throughout the game against Michigan’s defense.

Freshman running back Trayvion Henderson was held in check, rushing for just 74 yards and one touchdown. Quarterback C.J. Stroud did not have time to throw down the field, a staple of the Buckeyes offense.

That was due in large part to Michigan’s dynamic duo at the defensive end. Aidan Hutchinson set the Michigan single-season sack record (13) with a three-sack effort today. Hutchinson’s counterpart David Ojabo sacked Stroud to seal the game for the Wolverines.