1984: Ohio State v. Michigan (Drive-Thru)

http://www.ourhonordefend.com This game is almost never talked about in Ohio State lore, but this victory over Michigan catapulted Ohio State (instead of Iowa) to the Rose Bowl to face USC. Sadly, the Buckeyes have only been to the Rose Bowl one time since. The Buckeyes struck first on their second possession, and dominated Michigan for basically all of the first half. However, a botched punt return by Gary Lanese with 18 seconds left to go in the second quarter gave Michigan 3 points and a 7-3 deficit entering the half. Michigan came out the better team after intermission, cutting the Buckeyes' lead to 1 on their first possession. They missed a go-ahead FG on their next possession. The Michigan defense absolutely dominated the Buckeye offense for all of the second quarter and most of the third quarter. However, a 3rd down catch by Gary Lanese not only atoned for his previous boner at the end of the 2nd quarter, but led to an eventual touchdown to make the score 14-6. Michigan fumbled on their very next play, which resulted in the Buckeyes running over the demoralized Michigan defense for a quick touchdown. Ohio Stadium went into party mode with a 21-6 victory over Michigan, a Big Ten championship, and Earle Bruce's second trip to Pasadena.