Michigan's Kyle Whittingham Downplays Ohio State 'Hate' Ahead of 12th Game Showdown
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Jul 31
Michigan's Kyle Whittingham Downplays Ohio State 'Hate' Ahead of 12th Game Showdown
3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Jul 31
Summary
Big Ten Media Day put Michigan coach Kyle Whittingham on the spot about Ohio State, and he said "hate's a strong word" even as he stressed he wants to win that game "as badly as anybody in Ann Arbor."
Whittingham, who took over after Sherrone Moore was fired, said he understands the rivalry's national weight but is treating it as the 12th game, with 11 contests to navigate first.
He framed the ideal scenario as a season-ending matchup deciding the Big Ten title, calling that outcome "for all the marbles" and "outstanding."
The rivalry has turned especially volatile recently: Michigan's 2024 upset in Columbus sparked a midfield-flag brawl and police mace, while Ohio State ended Michigan's four-game streak last November before winning the national title.