The rivalry between the Ohio State Buckeyes and Michigan Wolverines is one of the fiercest battles in all of sports, college and professional. In fact, there may not be a rivalry that features more of a deep-seated hatred than this one.

The Ohio State-Michigan matchup is so intense, mind you, that the yearly meeting between the two teams is called “The Game.”

But is it possible that that moniker could ultimately fall by the wayside? Perhaps if enough money gets involved.

Ohio State athletic director Ross Bjork was recently asked if the Buckeyes and Wolverines would consider selling naming rights to “The Game,” and as much as fans would like to believe that wouldn’t happen, Bjork seemed open to it.

“I believe our Learfield and Ohio State Sports Properties still have this on their inventory list but nothing has come together just yet,” Bjork told Dave Briggs of The Toledo Blade in an email. “Maybe someday soon!”

A Michigan spokesperson seemed to agree, stating that it might be something both sides would weigh “given the changing nature of college athletics.”

But here’s the thing: Ohio State and Michigan tried this a couple of decades ago, as they renamed the affair the “SBC Michigan-Ohio State Classic” back in 2004. However, that did not last very long, as both fan bases were up in arms about the change.

The problem is that the fans may not be able to stop it this time, as college sports have definitely been altered, as the Michigan spokesperson said.

Hopefully, things remain as they are, but we’ll see.

In the world of college football, few rivalries rival the intensity and passion of the Ohio State-Michigan matchup. Each year, fans eagerly anticipate the clash, with traditions, pride, and bragging rights on the line. But recent reports suggest that both programs are contemplating a significant decision that could ruffle feathers among their loyal supporters.

**The Potential Decision: Moving Conference Alliances or Changing Scheduling Practices**

Sources close to both programs indicate that Ohio State and Michigan are considering a shift in their scheduling strategies or even exploring conference realignment options that could fundamentally alter the rivalry. While the specifics are still under wraps, insiders suggest that the move might involve reducing the number of games against traditional rivals or aligning with different conferences to maximize revenue, exposure, or competitive advantage.

**Why Would Fans Be Angry?**

The Ohio State-Michigan rivalry isn’t just about football; it’s a storied tradition deeply embedded in the schools’ identities. Fans cherish the annual game, which often shapes the Big Ten standings and national championship hopes. Any move that threatens to diminish or alter this rivalry could trigger widespread disappointment and frustration.

For example, if either school considers scheduling more non-conference games against high-profile teams outside the traditional rivalry, fans fear that the historic matchup could be de-emphasized or even sidelined in future seasons. Similarly, if conference realignment results in Michigan or Ohio State joining a different league or reducing their rivalry’s prominence, supporters might see it as a betrayal of tradition.

**The Business Side of College Football**

Advocates for change argue that such decisions could be driven by financial incentives. Big TV contracts, lucrative bowl games, and conference revenue-sharing models are increasingly influencing college programs’ strategic planning. Both Ohio State and Michigan are among the most valuable programs in the country, and aligning with conferences or scheduling practices that boost revenue could be tempting.

However, critics warn that prioritizing money over tradition risks alienating passionate fans who see the rivalry as a core part of their identity. The annual game often serves as a cultural event, with alumni, students, and communities rallying around it. Disrupting that could diminish the cultural significance of college football in the Midwest.

**Historical Context and Fan Reactions**

Historically, any perceived threat to the Ohio State-Michigan rivalry has sparked intense fan backlash. Past conference realignments and scheduling changes have met with protests, social media outrage, and calls for administration accountability. Fans value the rivalry’s legacy, and any decision seen as undermining it could lead to a sense of betrayal.

**What Could Happen Next?**

While nothing has been finalized, speculation remains high. Both schools are reportedly weighing options that balance financial benefits with the risk of alienating their base. Some fans fear that a shift toward more playoff-centric or conference-agnostic scheduling could diminish the importance of the Michigan-Ohio State game.

As Ohio State and Michigan navigate these potential changes, one thing remains clear: their fans are deeply invested in preserving the rivalry’s integrity. Any decision perceived as sacrificing tradition for profit or strategic advantage could lead to significant backlash. The schools will need to tread carefully, balancing the realities of modern college football with the passions of their loyal supporters.