ESPN predicts the winner between Michigan football, Ohio State Buckeyes in 2025
As anticipation builds for one of college football’s most iconic rivalries, ESPN has offered its early prediction for the 2025 showdown between the Michigan Wolverines and the Ohio State Buckeyes — and it’s already sparking debate across both fanbases.
In what promises to be another high-stakes installment of “The Game,” ESPN analysts have weighed in on which powerhouse program is more likely to come out on top in 2025. After evaluating roster depth, coaching stability, recent recruiting classes, and projected player development, the network is leaning toward Michigan as the favorite to win — albeit by a narrow margin.
The prediction is based on ESPN’s Football Power Index (FPI), along with insights from several of their top college football analysts. According to the projection, Michigan holds a slight edge due to its returning talent on both sides of the ball and the continuity within its coaching staff. While Jim Harbaugh has departed for the NFL, his successor, Sherrone Moore, has been credited with maintaining the team’s identity and culture, which were instrumental in their recent College Football Playoff success.
Michigan’s offense, anchored by a maturing quarterback and a reloaded offensive line, is expected to remain explosive. On defense, the Wolverines continue to boast one of the most disciplined and physical units in the country, thanks to a recruiting focus that emphasizes versatility and toughness.
Ohio State, on the other hand, is by no means being counted out. The Buckeyes are expected to field one of the most athletic and dangerous rosters in the nation, with five-star talent littered across both the offense and defense. Under head coach Ryan Day, Ohio State has maintained its reputation as a recruiting juggernaut and a perennial playoff contender.
Still, ESPN’s analysis points to key questions surrounding the Buckeyes’ quarterback situation and consistency in high-pressure moments — particularly in matchups against top-ranked opponents like Michigan. With recent history tilting in Michigan’s favor, analysts suggest the Wolverines may have the psychological edge heading into 2025.
“The margin is razor-thin,” one ESPN analyst said. “But if the game were played today, Michigan’s balance and defensive grit give them the slightest upper hand. That said, with the talent Ohio State brings in every year, it would be foolish to underestimate them.”
The 2025 game is expected to carry enormous postseason implications, just as it has in recent seasons. With both programs likely in the College Football Playoff conversation, the winner could very well claim a top seed — or at the very least, critical momentum heading into December.
While predictions at this stage remain speculative, they underscore the magnitude of this rivalry and how closely matched these two giants continue to be. Michigan may have the edge in ESPN’s current forecast, but as history has shown, anything can happen when the Wolverines and Buckeyes meet on the gridiron.
