Legendary Alabama coach and ESPN analyst Nick Saban stirred controversy this week after calling Ohio State fans “psychotic” for their obsession with beating Michigan — even more than winning national championships.
Appearing on “The Pat McAfee Show” ahead of Saturday’s highly anticipated rivalry clash between No. 1 Ohio State and No. 3 Michigan, Saban didn’t hold back.
“I said it last year — these Ohio State fans, they’re psychotic about this, man,” Saban said. “They all need to go see the doctor someplace. I’d rather win the national championship than beat Michigan. That’s just me, right?”
Saban’s comments reignited an already boiling rivalry. Buckeyes fans flooded social media with reactions, some defending their passion, others agreeing that the Michigan matchup outweighs even national glory. Last year’s social media posts highlighted that even in years when Ohio State has won big, losses to Michigan have left a bitter taste.
The rivalry has tilted in Michigan’s favor lately. The Wolverines have beaten Ohio State four straight times, meaning current seniors in Columbus could graduate without ever witnessing a win against “that team up north.” Last year’s defeat was particularly painful, with Michigan players planting their flag on the Buckeyes’ home turf — a move that sparked a brief skirmish.
This year, the stakes are even higher. Michigan, ranked 3rd in the latest College Football Playoff standings, is playing at home and could potentially punch a ticket to the playoff with a win. For Ohio State, a victory would keep them on top — but another loss to Michigan could derail their dream season and send the fanbase into full meltdown mode.
For Wolverines supporters, just making Ohio State fans miserable might be the biggest win of all.
