Michigan-Ohio State Football Game Canceled Due To Coronavirus

MICHIGAN — The annual showdown between the Michigan Wolverines and the Ohio State Buckeyes is another casualty of the coronavirus pandemic. School officials announced Tuesday that "The Game" will not take place as scheduled Saturday.

Michigan cited an increasing number of positive COVID-19 cases and student-athletes in quarantine over the past week in its decision to cancel the game. The university said the decision was made after consulting with medical experts.

"The number of positive tests has continued to trend in an upward direction over the last seven days," Michigan Athletic Director Warde Manuel said in a statement. "We have not been cleared to participate in practice at this time. Unfortunately, we will not be able to field a team due to COVID-19 positives and the associated quarantining required of close contact individuals.

"This decision is disappointing for our team and coaches but their health and safety is paramount, and it will always come first in our decision-making."

Michigan had canceled its game against Maryland, which was scheduled for last Saturday, but it was believed the team would be able to play Ohio State after participating in limited practice Monday and Tuesday.

Ohio State was favored by 30 points heading into the week. The Buckeyes are 5-0. The Wolverines are 2-4.

Michigan leads the all-time series 58-51-6, but Ohio State has dominated the rivalry over the last two decades, winning eight straight contests and 15 of the last 16 over the Wolverines.