Ohio State Fans Urged by Columbus Host to Drop ‘TTUN’ and Crossed-Out M’s
In a recent broadcast, Anthony Rothman, the host of the Rothman & Ice show on 97.1 The Fan, expressed his discontent with Ohio State’s rivalry traditions regarding Michigan. As the Buckeyes prepare to face the Wolverines, Rothman criticized the team’s avoidance of Michigan’s name and the practice of crossing out the letter ‘M’ on campus. He argued that these rituals do not contribute to victory and urged fans to acknowledge Michigan directly. Rothman stated, “Call ’em by their name. They’re Michigan, and you can’t beat them.”
Ohio State-Michigan Rivalry: A Fresh Perspective
Ohio State enters the upcoming game with a record of 11-0, ranked first in the nation. In contrast, Michigan stands at 9-2 and holds the 15th spot in the rankings. Despite their impressive records, Ohio State has not triumphed over their rivals since 2019. In the past four meetings, the Buckeyes have faced defeat, including three losses under head coach Ryan Day.
Current Trends in the Rivalry
- Ohio State has lost four consecutive games to Michigan.
- Ryan Day’s record against Michigan is 1-4.
- The Buckeyes were 20.5-point favorites last year but lost 13-10 at home.
- Previous losses were marked by controversy related to Michigan’s sign-stealing scandal.
Rothman’s remarks resonate with many fans who are increasingly frustrated by the superstitions and traditions that fail to yield results. This year, the Buckeyes boast a stronger roster, leading many to believe it could finally be the year they break their losing streak. However, past experiences have left fans cautious about expectations.
Looking Ahead
As the intensity of the rivalry heightens, the focus shifts from tradition to performance on the field. For Ohio State, overcoming this historical hurdle is essential not only for their season but also for the morale of their fanbase. With Rothman’s commentary encouraging a shift in mindset, fans are left contemplating the future of this storied rivalry.
