Wolverines vs. Buckeyes: THE game. College football fans throughout the Midwest mark their calendars every year for the annual matchup between the University of Michigan and the Ohio State University. It is a competitive rivalry that carries an energy unlike any other. The rivalry between the two universities runs deep and is taken very seriously by fans around the world. Both schools are known for their competitive football teams and dedicated fans, and each carries their own traditions that contribute to the excitement and popularity of college football as a whole.
The University of Michigan does not take gamedays lightly, especially the Ohio State matchup. U Mich is known for its incredible gameday atmosphere and fun activities. Perhaps the most well known tradition at the University of Michigan is the playing of the fight song, “The Victors.” Students, fans, and alumni alike all stand and chant along to this song as the football team makes their grand entrance to the field. As the team takes the field, each player runs under and touches the “Go Blue” banner. This tradition of touching the banner began in 1962 and continues to be an iconic symbol of the official start to the game for the Wolverines.Â
Though the University of Michigan no longer has real-life wolverines on the field, there is still one furry friend who is loved by students and fans everywhere. Victor the Frisbee Dog is considered the “unofficial mascot” of the school. The beloved black lab performs frisbee-catching tricks during timeouts and quarter breaks at U Mich home games. He is cheered on by the entire Big House Stadium and continues to impress every single game.
If being in the Big House alone doesn’t bring you goosebumps, the infamous “Mr. Brightside” will. This song is played at the conclusion of the third quarter, with many fans singing along. Hearing over 110,000 fans in the Big House sing this song is an experience unlike any other. Even when the song is cut off by the stadium’s speakers, fans continue to chant along, echoing the chorus before the fourth quarter begins. Talk about absolutely electric energy!
At the University of Michigan, the rivalry extends beyond just gameday. The annual Blood Battle is a blood drive competition between U Mich and OSU. The blood drive is hosted at both universities, in an attempt to collect more blood than the other school. This tradition sheds a positive light on the rivalry and showcases both universities’ commitments to making the world a better place.Â
If you ever get a chance to attend a football game in the Big House, consider yourself lucky. It is one of the most exciting and electric places to watch college football. And if you ever get the chance to watch the Wolverines play the Buckeyes in the Big House, consider yourself beyond blessed. It is an experience you will never forget, an energy unlike anything you have ever felt, and a crowd you will forever cherish. There’s truly no place like the Big House, as there’s truly nothing like Michigan football. Go Blue!
To see what traditions look like over at The Ohio State University, check out Olivia Hoffman’s article!