Brady Quinn and Danny Kanell decided to go against the spread for The Game on CBS Sports HQ for Rivalry Week.

Kanell decided that he was going to back Michigan but thought that The Game would be decided by fewer than 3.5 points.

“I’m actually going with history as an indicator of future results. I’m gonna go ahead and back Michigan here. I hate the number, because I think it’s probably closer to around a field goal. This feels crazy because Ohio State is playing their best football, Kyle McCord looking better,” said Kanell. “J.J. McCarthy comes limping into this game, it looks like he’s banged up. Until I see Ohio State live up to the physicality of this game, I’m gonna back the home team here.”

Quinn went the other way with Ohio State as his pick. Quinn took the Ohio State over and explained how the defense has improved this season.

Jim Knowles’ defense gave up 18 plays over 40 yards last season and has had just 1 against them this year.

“I’ve got this game entirely different. These are two teams going in different directions. Ohio State has continually ascended this season in particular with their defense and running back TreVeyon Henderson,” said Quinn. “Jim Knowles has done a superb job of eliminating the big plays. Last year, they gave up 18 plays over 40 yards. This year? Only 1.”

Quinn further explained his pick by talking about the injuries for Michigan.

“If you go back to the last couple of years, it’s really come down to a few big plays at the end of the game where Michigan’s been able to separate themselves. Roman Wilson left with a shoulder injury last week,” said Quinn. “J.J. McCarthy’s been battling that left ankle injury and hasn’t been able to throw it as well. Left tackle LaDarius Henderson missed last week. Their backup came in and left with an injury. The right side of the offensive line has struggled.”

The Game kicks off at noon ET on FOX with so plenty on the line for both teams.