Happy Thanksgiving, Buckeye Nation! We hope you’re enjoying the holiday with friends and family—and maybe finding a moment to relax before the nerves kick in for The Game. As we count down to Saturday, let’s channel some hopeful energy and lay out three bold predictions for Ohio State’s showdown with Michigan.

1. Julian Sayin Gets His Heisman Moment
Julian Sayin has been outstanding all season, ranking among the nation’s most accurate passers and sitting comfortably in the top five of Heisman odds. The only knock? Ohio State has been so dominant that Sayin hasn’t needed a “Heisman moment”—no late-game heroics, no dramatic comebacks. But with the spotlight on The Game, expect Sayin to rise to the occasion. Whether it’s a clutch drive or a highlight-reel throw, just beating Michigan and leading the Buckeyes to victory could be the signature moment that cements his Heisman campaign.

2. Jeremiah Smith Returns, Carnell Tate Sits One More Week
Rumors and reports suggest Jeremiah Smith will be back in action, while Carnell Tate may need another week to recover. Smith, already a Biletnikoff frontrunner, is poised for a monster game—look for him to rack up over 100 yards and two touchdowns against a Michigan secondary that’s shown vulnerability to elite receivers. His presence will open up the run game and give Ohio State the edge they need, while Tate’s absence will be felt but not insurmountable. Smith’s performance could lock up his status as the nation’s best receiver and make him the second Buckeye in three years to win the Biletnikoff.

3. The Defense Holds Michigan Under 100 Yards Rushing
Ohio State’s “Silver Bullets” defense has been historic, holding 10 straight opponents under 100 rushing yards—a feat not seen since 1936. Michigan’s ground game, their offensive foundation, faces a tough challenge: Justice Haynes is likely out, Jordan Marshall is nursing a shoulder injury, and walk-on Bryson Kuzdzal may see significant snaps. Defensive coordinator Matt Patricia has the front six playing at an elite level, stuffing inside runs and pressuring the line of scrimmage. The only concern is outside zone runs, which Penn State exploited briefly, but expect the Buckeyes to set a new school record with 11 consecutive games holding opponents under 100 yards on the ground.

What are your bold predictions for The Game? Share your thoughts and join the conversation as we get ready for one of the biggest matchups in college football!

Photo Credit: Ticketmaster