The battle lines for the Ohio State vs Michigan clash at the weekends have been drawn. Going into the game, both the governors of Ohio and Michigan have placed a bet on the fixture. If this doesn’t give you an idea of the stakes Saturday’s game holds, the words of OSU’s head coach Ryan Day, who is without a win in ‘The Game’, comparing the losses in this fixture to the demise of his father, underlined the strong emotion this particular encounter carries.

Saturday’s game is a rivalry rooted in history and often brings out the passion that is rarely seen in other college football faceoffs. While the coaches, players, and even the political representatives stand divided ahead of the game, the patrol units of Michigan and Ohio have unified their efforts to try and ensure a trouble-free experience for those attending the game.

With a game as intense as this one, there is always a chance of things spiraling out of control away from the action and that is what Ohio State police officers will be trying to control. Speaking on the November 27th episode of WBNS 10TV, an Ohio State police personnel mentioned, “We obviously always are planning for all the games, but obviously, Michigan has a little higher, you know, likelihood for things to go on. So we, we obviously are working with all our partners as we always do. But you know, obviously, we know this game has a lot of significance. So we’re, you know, planning appropriately and staffing appropriately.” The officers then talked about one major concern for the game that they have to deal with.

“It’s really traffic. Traffic seems to be the biggest issue. People get frustrated sometimes, you know, moving that many people in the stadium is going to take a while to get them in and out. So sometimes people get a little frustrated,” the officer added. Another personnel also shared a concern and had a piece of advice for those visiting the game.You know, biggest concern is just getting to the game and, and being safe while you’re here. You know, make sure you come early, make sure you arrive early, you park, leave your drones at home, leave your valuables at home. Come, just enjoy the game and drink responsibly,” they mentioned.

Earlier, Col. Charles Jones, Ohio State Highway Patrol superintendent also talked about following speed limits and assigning a sober driver.

“The best way to keep the roads safe during this weekend’s Ohio State vs. Michigan game is for all drivers to make safety a priority. Whether you’re cheering for Scarlet and Gray or Maize and Blue, safe driving habits are key. By following speed limits, properly wearing a safety belt and designating a sober driver, we can ensure everyone enjoys The Game safely and responsibly.”

Col. James Grady II, director of the Michigan State Police also reminded people to use ride-share services and take precautions while driving. “There is absolutely no reason to drive impaired – ever. Enjoy the game and the celebrations that come with it but please be responsible because lives depend on it. Protect yourself and others on the road by using a ride-share service or if driving, only drive sober, avoid distractions, and wear your seatbelt,” he said.

Meanwhile, extra spice was added to the game on Sunday after the bets placed by the governors of Ohio and Michigan. Governor Mike DeWine has wagered a candy basket, highlighting Ohio’s candy companies. It includes assorted chocolates from Dayton’s Esther Price candies, Marsha’s Homemade Buckeyes from Perrysburg, and chocolate-covered pretzels from Cleveland’s Malley’s Chocolates. On the other hand, Michigan’s Governor Gretchen Whitmer has wagered a pack of Michi-gummies from Shurms Candy, a Michigan company with locations across the state.

While this is a friendly wager, we expect nothing but fireworks on Saturday and for both coaches, the game has great significance.

How important is this win against Michigan for Ryan Day & Co.?

HC Ryan Day has been unable to win against Michigan since the last win in 2019 and it seems the winless run has taken its toll on him. Talking to 10TV’s Dom Tiberi on Monday, he talked about the losing streak, “It’s one of the worst things that happened to people in my life, you know, quite honestly. I’ve seen losing my father and a few other things, like, quite honestly for my family, the worst thing that’s happened, so we can never have that happen again ever. And that’s been the approach all season.”

This is a strong statement, one that highlights what winning in this fixture means, something that Sherrone Moore perfectly understands. Though this is Moore’s first meeting against OSU as a full-time HC, he recorded a win over the program last year. With former coach Jim Harbaugh suspended for the final three games, Moore stepped up as the acting HC and led the Wolverines to a thrilling 30-24 win.

This win it seems played a role when Harbaugh endorsed Moore for the role while leaving in January. OSU were No. 2 back then, just as they are right now. Moore has been under the cosh during this transitional season, but another win over the rivals would give him much-needed credit among the Michigan faithful, with his team already bowl-eligible.

Ryan Day said that the game, “means the world; this game is a war.” Nothing is far from the truth; this game is really a war of pride and position.