TOLEDO, Ohio — It's a tradition that goes back nearly two decades.
Several people in Toledo participate in Ohio State and Michigan themed polar plunges, where fans of the losing team have to jump into the freezing Maumee River.
Seventeen years ago, a simple playful bet between two brother-in laws has now become a tradition featuring dozens.
Gerald Chasteen is a loyal Michigan Fan, while his brother-in law Richard Chizmar is an Ohio State fan.
“This is very cold. This is very, very cold. It's ridiculously cold,” said Chizmar.
"It's just basically bringing the city together, bringing the friends, the family, neighborhoods, everybody together,” said Chasteen. "Look at us, we're all building up, guys."
This tradition means more than just jumping in the freezing cold water.
"I think it means a lot because it's just, I don't know, it's like everyone does it. Everyone gets around in the community and does it. It's a really good thing to get everybody together,” said Alyna Foreman, a citizen of Toledo.
Historically, Ohio State has been dominant and Chasteen had to jump in the water more often than not. For the last four years in a row, Michigan turned it around and won the big game, meaning it’s been Chizmar's turn to do the honors of making the plunge.
Chizmar says last year was a lot warmer compared to this year with temperatures in the 20’s.
The water was frigid and it's hard to stay in it for more than a few seconds. But for these two, a bet is a bet.
"Tradition is tradition, man. You got to stick with it because I expect you [Chasteen] to do it next year,” said Chizmar."
The tradition will continue next year and Gerald said they expect it to be another Ohio State loss, just like this year. Although Richard warned, don't be so sure.