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‘Of course not’: Jim Harbaugh denies Michigan-Ohio State is just another game

Dustin Schutte

By Dustin Schutte

Published:

Coaches approach rivalry games in a variety of different ways. Some will argue about the significance and importance of winning those battles every year. Others will deflect, saying those matchups are just like any other game.

So which side is Jim Harbaugh on when it comes to Michigan-Ohio State? He answered that question with three simple words during his weekly press conference.

The Michigan head coach was asked Monday if Saturday’s contest was just another game. Harbaugh’s response?

“Of course not.”

It wasn’t said lightly, either. Harbaugh, about as passionately as he could, issued that three-word response to signify just how important this game means to both programs.

And this fall, it has even more implications. The winner heads to Indianapolis for a showdown with Northwestern in the B1G Championship Game. The College Football Playoff is still a possibility, as well.

Meanwhile, the loser will be sitting at home on Championship Saturday, patiently awaiting its bowl placement.

Not only is the annual Michigan-Ohio State game a little bit different than the other games, this year’s clash is a lot more important than most years. There will be a lot on the line in Columbus on Saturday.

Harbaugh didn’t even attempt to deny it.

Dustin Schutte

Dustin grew up in the heart of Big Ten country and has been in sports media since 2010. He has been covering Big Ten football since 2014. You can follow him on Twitter: @SchutteCFB