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For Michigan fans, beating Ohio State matters more than the College Football Playoff

Originally posted on Michigan Wolverines on SI
By Chris Breiler | Last updated Jun 7, 2025 9:42 PM ET

Although a spot in the College Football Playoff and a chance to compete for the national championship is a top priority for teams across the country, Michigan fans view things a little bit differently. Make no mistake, Michigan fans want to see the Wolverines competing for a national championship year in and year out. But when it comes to The Game, the Maize and Blue faithful say that a win over Ohio State means more to them than a spot in the College Football Playoff... at least in 2025.

Michigan fans were recently asked a simple question: What would mean more to them in 2025, beating Ohio State for a 5th consecutive time, or a spot in the CFP.

The vast majority of Michigan fans picked a 5th consecutive win over Ohio State. You can read some of the responses below:

Win The Game. Think of all the fun we have had reading all the mental gymnastics of the Ohio State fans this offseason.
— David Herrick (@DavidPHerrick) May 31, 2025

There nothing more important for a true Michigan fan than winning The Game.
— Zachary Wilson (@zwilson) May 31, 2025

Beating Ohio State mercilessly… pic.twitter.com/tZVzjHJpTb
— David Gregory (@DavidAlGregory) May 31, 2025

pic.twitter.com/BtOp2pqkGx
— Stannibal (@stannibal_71) June 1, 2025

Beating Ohio State means more than a CFP spot. Now had you said winning the natty, that changes things. Maybe.
— Jason (@GoBlueVA) May 31, 2025

This is what makes Michigan different than Ohio. Wed rather beat them than make the playoffs!!
— The Traveling Cat Dad (@timdevaney) May 31, 2025

While Ohio State fans have spent the better part of the last four months trying to downplay the importance of the rivalry (mainly because they can't win it), it's clear that Michigan fans don't share that belief. And while Twitter/X responses don't necessarily speak for an entire fan base, there's no question that Michigan fans want to see the current winning streak over Ohio State continue. For many, that winning streak means more than a spot in the CFP.

You can read more of the Twitter/X responses by clicking here.

This article first appeared on Michigan Wolverines on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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