Buckeye vs. Wolverine

Being a Buckeye vs. Being a Wolverine

Amanda Johns

Marion Technical College

Being a Buckeye vs. Being a Wolverine

People have become fans of teams for a variety of reasons; whether one is born into it, or it is state pride, or an individual having a preference for a team. Living in the state of Ohio there are many “Buckeye” fans around. Just the sight of seeing the colors of navy and gold together could ensue a small look of disgust. The rival between the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Michigan Wolverine’s has been stated as one of the top rivalries in college football. This match up, at the end of both seasons, does not matter if the entire season was flawless, the losing team had a bad year because the loss of a single game. The outcome of the final game is how the entire season is determined. Statistically, the Wolverines have won more games between the two teams, but what makes a person chose a side between these two teams? Regardless of where the alliance lies, each have their own traditions, school pride, and ideas of rivalry, with both teams having common goals, but oh so different…

When you hear the scream of an individual shout to the top of his or her lungs with an enthusiastic, “O-H…” any Buckeye fan knows how to follow with a bellowing, “I-O!” This has been a long standing tradition filled with zest and pride that only a Buckeye fan can relate to. Michigan has a similar mantra that means just as much to them when they state, “Go Blue!” During these football games, it is almost impossible to tell who is saying what because each fan side is trying to out yell the opposing team. In addition to the “Go Blue,” Michigan also sings “Hail to the Victor” after each touchdown, field goal, and sometimes even first downs, in celebration of their success. Another commonality, that until this year, was a difference, are the symbolic nature of the stickers on the player’s helmets. Both teams have had this tradition in the past of giving players...