Age Old Big Ten Rivalry Now Decides Who Number 1

Nov. 16, 2006 — -- I'll never forget when Jim Tressel was introduced as the head coach at Ohio State. At halftime of an Ohio State-Michigan basketball game, he told the crowd, "I can assure you that you will be proud of your young people in the classroom, in the community and most especially in 310 days in Ann Arbor, Mich."

That comment speaks volumes about the intensity of Saturday's rivalry game (ABC, 3:30 p.m. ET).

Tressel knew what he had to do to be considered successful in the eyes of Buckeyes fans, and he has succeeded, earning a 4-1 record against Michigan.

This year's edition features a number of intriguing matchups. Both quarterbacks -- No. 1 Ohio State's Troy Smith and No. 2 Michigan's Chad Henne -- have evolved dramatically since they last met on the field. Smith has developed into the total quarterback with his poise; he is calm and comfortable in the pocket.

Chad Henne, who was hampered by poor decision making in the past, has cut down on his sacks while increasing his completion percentage.

Both quarterbacks have stepped up their games in hostile environments: Smith at Texas, Henne at Notre Dame.

As good as these quarterbacks are, neither will be asked to win this game by himself. Both benefit from their talented teammates.

Running back Mike Hart opens up the passing game for Michigan and is the difference between the 2005 edition of the Wolverines and the current edition.

Henne also has three big targets in Mario Manningham (who has been hampered by an injury), Steve Breaston and Adrian Arrington. Smith, meanwhile, relies on game-breaker Ted Ginn Jr., Anthony Gonzalez and running back Antonio Pittman.

But for all the attention each team's offense receives, the defenses might be better: Michigan ranks first in the nation in rush defense, third in total defense and fifth in scoring defense.

The Wolverines boasts powerful defenders and one of the country's top special teams units. There is a lot of hidden yardage to be gained in the return game, and both Ginn and Breaston have the ability to take it all the way.