Baker Mayfield, former Oklahoma quarterback and current Tampa Bay Buccaneers player, commented on the recent trend of flag planting in college football, a practice he famously did in 2017. This weekend saw several instances of flag planting after rivalry games, including Michigan's attempt at Ohio State, which led to a brawl and fines for both teams. Mayfield downplayed the significance, suggesting it's part of the rivalry culture in college football.
ESPN college football reporter Pete Thamel faced criticism from "College GameDay" analyst Desmond Howard for reporting from Michigan Stadium instead of the "GameDay" set, where he has been providing updates on the suspended Jim Harbaugh. Howard called out Thamel for not "putting on his big boy pants" and reporting from the crowd like he has been doing all season. Despite concerns about backlash, Howard assured Thamel that the Michigan fans are friendly and that security is present.
Rivalry Week in the Big Ten features the highly anticipated matchup between No. 3 Michigan and No. 2 Ohio State, with both teams vying for a spot in the College Football Playoff. Other games include Penn State vs. Michigan State, Iowa vs. Nebraska, Indiana vs. Purdue, Northwestern vs. Illinois, Wisconsin vs. Minnesota, and Rutgers vs. Maryland. Several teams are looking to secure bowl eligibility, while others aim for New Year's Six bowl berths.
The highly anticipated matchup between No. 2 Ohio State and No. 3 Michigan will be broadcasted on Fox at 12 p.m. ET. The winner of the game will have a strong chance of reaching the College Football Playoff, while the loser will need help to make it to the four-team field. Michigan enters the game without suspended coach Jim Harbaugh, but quarterback J.J. McCarthy will look to boost his Heisman Trophy candidacy. Streaming options include FUBO, which offers a free trial.
