An unfortunate ending to the 2023 season got worse for Ohio State fans on Monday.
OSU's arch rival Michigan won its first national title since the 1997 season, taking down future Big Ten member Washington 34-13 in Houston.
Michigan's running attack carried the night for the Wolverines on Monday, as Blake Corum and Donovan Edwards each went over 100 yards rushing on the night. Corum tallied 126 yards on 19 carries with two touchdowns, while Edwards ran for 104 yards on six carries with two touchdowns, including the Wolverines' first two scores of the evening.
After a fast start, the Wolverines faltered offensively after the first quarter, allowing the Huskies to keep it a one-possession game until the fourth quarter. Michigan put consistent pressure on Washington quarterback Michael Penix, forcing two interceptions and limiting explosive plays.
Michigan's victory is the first national championship for the Big Ten since Ohio State won the title over Oregon in 2014.
Sign-stealing allegations hung over the Michigan program since October and even resulted in a suspension of head coach Jim Harbaugh for the team's final three games of the regular season, but the Wolverines managed to stay undefeated throughout the season regardless as the NCAA investigation continues into the offseason.
Monday may also have been Harbaugh's last game on the sidelines for Michigan, as he continues to field reported interest from multiple NFL teams.
After three straight defeats to the Wolverines, Ohio State will have a chance to get on the right side of the rivalry on Nov. 30 in Columbus.
