There's no mourning period for what happened this afternoon.
The first 10 games of the season may have served as buildup to that long anticipated rematch of B1G East titans, but Ohio State's second-to-last game of the season - regardless of the score, outcome, opponent or year - annually concludes the Buckeyes' regular season. With all due respect to the victorious Spartans, the most important game of Ohio State's season is in seven days.
It's a one-game season every year. Welcome to Michigan Week.
The last time the Buckeyes visited Ann Arbor, Braxton Miller ended up on the cover of Sports Illustrated. That happened despite Carlos Hyde rushing for 226 yards, which is still the best statistical day by an opposing running back in Ann Arbor in the 136-year history of Michigan football. He nearly averaged a 1st down every time he touched the ball.
One of the best things about being an Ohio State fan is SAVORING Michigan week.
Hyde broke the previous record by a visiting running back to Michigan Stadium, which was held for all of six seasons by Beanie Wells who rushed for six fewer yards.
Troy Smith went 3-0 against Michigan. Maurice Clarett was the difference maker in 2002. Archie Griffin never lost the last game of the season. There are too many villains on the other side of the rivalry to list who have solidified their legacies against Ohio State. A year ago The Game produced one of the more emotional wins for the Buckeyes in which Barrett's dream season ended and Kosta Karageorge was still missing.
But there's no mourning period for what happened against the Spartans this afternoon, as there would be no time to celebrate had the Buckeyes won. One of the best things about being an Ohio State fan is savoring every single bit of anxiety that comes with Michigan week. That begins right now.
Go Bucks. Beat Michigan. How firm thy friendship, Ohio.
