Ohio State to be without multiple players against Michigan in 'The Game'

275133747_4796292347117549_592518599057046758_nby:Jonathan Wagner•11/27/21•

Jonathan Wagner

Ohio State is going to be a little bit shorthanded on Saturday in ‘The Game’ against Michigan. The Buckeyes will be without multiple depth pieces on defense, and likely another on offense.

According to Austin Ward of Lettermen Row, Ohio State will be without cornerback Sevyn Banks, linebacker Palaie Gaoteote, and likely offensive lineman Josh Fryar as well.

Ward reported that Fryar was injured during pregame warmups.

“Can probably add backup offensive lineman Josh Fryar to this list,” Ward tweeted. “He just went down with a leg injury during warmups and is heading to the locker room.”

Despite missing a few depth pieces, Ohio State will have its entire starting lineup in tact against Michigan.

‘The Game’ between Ohio State and Michigan is set to kick off at 12 noon on Saturday in Ann Arbor. The matchup has huge postseason implications for both teams both in the Big Ten and in the College Football Playoff.

This year’s edition of ‘The Game’ is big for both Ohio State and Michigan

Whoever wins on Saturday will be in a great position to be in the College Football Playoff at the end of the season. The winner will also clinch a spot in the Big Ten Championship game.

Ohio State and Michigan both enter ‘The Game’ ranked in the top five in the latest College Football Playoff rankings. The Buckeyes are ranked No. 2 while the Wolverines are No. 5. Both teams enter the weekend with a 10-1 record. Ohio State is 8-0 against Big Ten opponents, while Michigan is 7-1.

It is snowing in Ann Arbor, which could add some intrigue to the important matchup. ESPN analyst Paul Finebaum made his prediction on who will win between Ohio State and Michigan in ‘The Game’ earlier in the week.

“Déjà vu all over again. Buckeyes roll over Harbaugh,” Finebaum said.

Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh and Ohio State head coach Ryan Day both know the importance of Saturday’s matchup. Both head coaches struggled to say anything positive about their rivals ahead of Saturday’s showdown.