COLUMBUS, Ohio -- For the first time since 2011, Michigan entered a contest with Ohio State as the favorite.
The Buckeyes' underdog status didn't last long.
After forcing a Wolverines three-and-out on the opening drive of the game, Ohio State's offense took over at its own 43-yard line. Six plays and 57 yards later, the Buckeyes were in the end zone, with quarterback Dwayne Haskins finding freshman receiver Chris Olave on a crossing route for a 24-yard touchdown throw.
With that, Ohio State took a 7-0 lead over its rival, which hasn't beaten the Buckeyes in Columbus since 2000. After Michigan entered Saturday as a 5-point favorite, live betting lines shifted the odds to favor Ohio State by 2.5 points.
Ranked 10th in the nation, the Buckeyes entered Saturday's matchup with the No. 4 Wolverines with a trip to the Big Ten Championship Game on the line. With a 10-1 record and No. 19 Northwestern waiting in Indianapolis next week, Ohio State's hopes of making the College Football Playoff remain alive -- although it's possible the Buckeyes will also need some help.
But before Ohio State can worry about its postseason plans, it must first worry about beating its rival for a seventh straight season. So far, it's been so good for the Buckeyes.
For all the latest from Columbus on Saturday, follow our live blog and join the conversation social media using the hashtag #3Buckeyes.
