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So many memories to pull from, but I think I’ll go back to 1987. This is probably the first Ohio State Michigan game I have memories of watching and understanding the the magnitude of this rivalry.
Ohio State entered 1987 with high hopes with a preseason ranking of No. 5 in the country. But things derailed quickly in Columbus. Chris Carter was suspended for taking money from an agent. Tom Tupa, a punter by trade, became the Buckeye starting quarterback. Ohio State would lose to Indiana by 21 points, the first loss to the Hoosiers since 1951, followed by a three game losing streak to Michigan State, Wisconsin, and Iowa.
Ohio State Athletic Director, Rick Bay, decided to make a change before the Michigan game and informed Bruce that he would be relieved of his duties, but could coach the team against the Wolverines if he liked.
The Buckeyes entered the Michigan game just 5-4-1, but the players wanted to show their love to Coach Bruce. Every player came out wearing white headbands inscribed in red Sharpie with “Earle”. A show of respect and admiration to the man they called coach.
@OhioStateFB Bring back the Earle headbands for the home opener! #BuckeyeNation #ForEarle pic.twitter.com/cNBHOlIFA9
— John Tyler (@Tcaton5) April 20, 2018
The team would play inspired football with a come from behind victory over the Wolverines and Earle Bruce would be carried off the field hoisted on loving shoulder pads.
Remember what @OhioStateFB players did after Earle Bruce led them past Michigan in his final game in 1987? pic.twitter.com/OFLUPFl0EW
— Ohio State on BTN (@OhioStateOnBTN) April 20, 2018
In a season that was otherwise disappointing, it would have been easy to mail it in. But… The Game matters regardless of records and it can ultimately change the way a season is viewed.
In 1987, I learned all I needed to know from a 6-4-1 team about the greatest rivalry in sports.