Back to the Michigan Wolverines Newsfeed

Michigan football vs. Ohio State game in September? Why rivalry game might get moved up

Jack Park has documented decades of Ohio State football history. But he could witness something new this fall.

The Big Ten’s decision to play only conference games during the 2020 season could bring dramatic changes to the Buckeyes’ slate, including their biggest rivalry game.

Athletic director Gene Smith said earlier this month that a consideration for administrators is frontloading schedules with divisional matchups, prioritizing the most important games.

Such a scheduling model could turn the Ohio State-Michigan game into an early-season affair, a break from longstanding tradition.

Rainer Sabin: Michigan football's 2020 season options: Start fast or be buried

Take a look at who the Michigan Wolverines will face in the 2020 football season, after canceling nonconference games. All dates subject to change due to COVID-19.

Almost exclusively since 1935, the Buckeyes and Wolverines have played on the final weekend of the regular season in an often-climactic matchup between the powerhouse programs.