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Betting Preview: Best Bets for Michigan vs. Ohio State Rivalry

By Vinnie Portell

Michigan running back Blake Corum (2) takes off on a 30-yard touchdown run in the second half of an NCAA football game against Penn State Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023, in State College, Pa.
Michigan running back Blake Corum (2) takes off on a 30-yard touchdown run in the second half of an NCAA football game against Penn State Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023, in State College, Pa. /
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It’s going to be a thrill to watch this game even without money on the line, but why not make the most of it?

Michigan is only a 3.5-point favorite with -165 moneyline odds against Ohio State at BetMGM Sportsbook.

And that makes some sense, considering the Wolverines will be without head coach Jim Harbaugh again this week.

Let’s break down this matchup to see how we can find some betting value (and win $200 in instant bonus bets at BetMGM).

Michigan vs. Ohio State Odds, Spread and Total

This is the lowest spread for the Wolverines all season and that shouldn’t be a surprise considering this is the best opponent they’ve seen all year.

But sign-stealing or not, Michigan’s home-field advantage should be worth much more.

The Wolverines have DOMINATED opponents at home this season, allowing just 7.2 points per game at The Big House across six games.

That defensive effort has produced the best pass defense in college football this season (144.8 pass yards allowed per game) and a top-10 rush defense (90.7 rush yards allowed per game).

That defense could certainly be a tough matchup for an Ohio State offense that relies heavily on its passing attack.

We all saw how this played out against a similarly stout defense. The Buckeyes squeaked out a 20-12 win over Penn State, but Marvin Harrison Jr. dominated as he hauled in 11 catches for 162 yards and a touchdown.

If Michigan can slow down Harrison Jr., the Buckeyes might find it hard to sustain long drives.

Ohio State has almost as good of a pass defense (145.3 pass yards allowed per game), but its rush defense has allowed 109.5 yards per game.

The Wolverines have one of the most efficient rushing games in the nation led by Blake Corum (888 rushing yards, 20 TDs) and that was the difference-maker in their signature win over the Nittany Lions.

Look for more of the same against Ohio State.

There are tons of different ways you can back Michigan, and you can get started with $200 in instant bonus bets waiting for you at BetMGM. All you have to do is sign up and place your first bet of $10 or more on Michigan vs. Ohio State. You’ll instantly win $200 in bonus bets, win or lose. Sign up with BetMGM today!

Picks: Michigan -3.5, Under 46.5 total points

Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.

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