Aidan Hutchinson Suggests Ohio State’s National Championship Deserves an Asterisk

In the world of college football, rivalries often fuel intense debates and passionate opinions. One such instance arose when Michigan defensive end Aidan Hutchinson suggested that Ohio State’s 2025 national championship might deserve an asterisk. This comment has ignited discussions among fans, analysts, and players alike, raising questions about the legitimacy of championship titles and the factors that contribute to a team’s success.

The Rivalry Context

The Michigan-Ohio State rivalry is one of the most storied in college football history. Every year, the matchup between the Wolverines and the Buckeyes is highly anticipated, often with significant implications for the Big Ten standings and the College Football Playoff race. Both programs have rich traditions and passionate fanbases, leading to heightened emotions and competitive tensions.

Aidan Hutchinson, a standout defensive player for Michigan, has been at the center of this rivalry. Known for his on-field prowess and leadership, Hutchinson has often been vocal about his team’s goals and the importance of the Michigan-Ohio State game. His recent comments about Ohio State’s national title have added fuel to the fire, prompting widespread discussion.

The Asterisk Comment

Hutchinson’s remark came during a media interview following Michigan’s season-ending loss to Ohio State. When asked about the Buckeyes’ national championship, Hutchinson stated, “It’s hard to take their title seriously when they didn’t have to face us. It feels like there should be an asterisk next to it.” This statement quickly garnered attention, with many interpreting it as a critique of Ohio State’s path to the championship.

The comment suggests that Hutchinson believes the absence of a Michigan-Ohio State game in the 2025 season—due to scheduling conflicts and the COVID-19 pandemic—diminished the legitimacy of Ohio State’s title. He implied that the Buckeyes’ championship run was incomplete without the traditional rivalry game, which often serves as a determining factor in the Big Ten standings and playoff positioning.

Reactions to the Statement

Hutchinson’s comments sparked a range of reactions across the college football community.

• Ohio State Fans and Players: Many Buckeye supporters viewed Hutchinson’s remark as sour grapes and an attempt to delegitimize their team’s success. Ohio State quarterback C.J. Stroud responded by emphasizing the team’s performance throughout the season, stating, “We played who was on our schedule and handled our business. We earned that title.”
• Michigan Fans and Alumni: Some Wolverines supporters agreed with Hutchinson’s perspective, feeling that the absence of the rivalry game left a significant void in the season. They argued that the traditional matchup is crucial for determining the true champion of the Big Ten and that its omission impacted the season’s narrative.
• Analysts and Commentators: Sports analysts were divided on the issue. Some believed that Hutchinson’s comment was an emotional response to Michigan’s loss and the disrupted season, while others felt it raised valid points about the importance of traditional rivalries in shaping championship legitimacy.

The Role of Rivalries in College Football

Rivalry games have long been a cornerstone of college football, often influencing conference standings, bowl selections, and playoff berths. The Michigan-Ohio State game, in particular, is one of the most anticipated matchups each season, with both teams and their fanbases viewing it as a measuring stick for success.

The absence of this game in 2025 due to external factors, such as the pandemic and scheduling issues, led to a season unlike any other. Without the traditional rivalry game, some fans and players felt that the season lacked a sense of closure and completeness.

Hutchinson’s comment reflects a sentiment shared by many who believe that certain games are integral to the college football experience and the legitimacy of a championship run. While Ohio State’s path to the title was undoubtedly impressive, the missing rivalry game left a lingering question mark for some regarding the season’s authenticity.

The Bigger Picture

While Hutchinson’s comments have brought attention to the issue, they also highlight broader challenges facing college football. The pandemic has disrupted schedules, altered traditions, and forced teams to adapt in unprecedented ways. These changes have led to debates about the fairness and legitimacy of the season, with some questioning whether traditional metrics and criteria still apply.

In this context, Hutchinson’s remark serves as a reminder of the deep-rooted traditions and rivalries that define college football. It underscores the importance of these elements in shaping the sport’s identity and the perceptions of its champions.

Aidan Hutchinson’s suggestion that Ohio State’s 2025 national championship should carry an asterisk has sparked a significant conversation about the role of rivalries and traditional matchups in determining the legitimacy of college football titles. While opinions vary, the discussion highlights the passion and commitment that fans and players have for the sport and its traditions.

As college football continues to evolve, it will be essential to balance innovation with tradition, ensuring that the essence of the game remains intact. Rivalries like Michigan vs. Ohio State are more than just games; they are a testament to the history, culture, and spirit of college football.

In the end, whether or not Ohio State’s championship carries an asterisk is a matter of perspective. What remains indisputable is the enduring significance of the Michigan-Ohio State rivalry and its impact on the landscape of college football.