The primary rival for Michigan football is Ohio State. There is a reason why their annual matchup in late November is called The Game. With rare exception, Ohio State is a quality team and the contest represents a known hurdle for the Wolverines.
Growing up during the John Cooper years, it was a game Michigan football won far more often than they lost. Yet, now that the tables have turned, a loss to Ohio State doesn’t needle.
OSU defeats have never stung like Michigan State. MSU was always supposed to be a win and a defeat took away Michigan’s birthright, a trip to the Rose Bowl.