Ohio State adjusts traditions as Michigan shifts coaching strategy ahead of rivalry
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 18, 2026, 9:12 AM
Last updated Aug 18, 2026
Michigan's new coach Kyle Whittingham aims to win The Game without the traditional rivalry animosity. Ohio State's Ryan Day is shifting the Senior Day celebration to the season opener to relieve end-of-season distractions. This change has drawn mixed reactions, with some believing it brings a new perspective to their longstanding rivalry. Whittingham acknowledges the importance of the rivalry, highlighting its national significance, while reflecting on past experiences in intense games.
- •Kyle Whittingham replaces Jim Harbaugh as Michigan's head coach.
- •Ryan Day moves Senior Day festivities to the season opener.
- •Whittingham claims he doesn't hate Ohio State, focusing on winning.
- •Ohio State's tradition changes aim to minimize distractions before Michigan.
- •The rivalry has faced significant tension in recent seasons.
- 9:12 AMYahoo Sports — Michigan changed coaches. Ohio State changed traditions. Let the mind games begin
"Ryan Day is changing traditions. Kyle Whittingham is changing the rhetoric. Ohio State vs. Michigan already has everyone thinking too much.
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