_Ohio State vs. Michigan Rivalry ‘Watered Down’ in Modern College Football Era, Cardale Jones Says_

_Ohio State vs. Michigan Rivalry ‘Watered Down’ in Modern College Football Era, Cardale Jones Says_

 

Columbus, OH – The Ohio State vs. Michigan rivalry is one of the most iconic and storied in college football. However, according to former Ohio State quarterback Cardale Jones, the rivalry has been “watered down” in the modern college football era.

 

Jones, who played for the Buckeyes from 2012 to 2015, made the comments during a recent interview with 247Sports. He cited the increasing focus on conference championships and the College Football Playoff as a major factor in the rivalry’s diminished significance.

 

“I think the rivalry has been watered down a little bit,” Jones said. “I think it’s because of the way the college football landscape has changed. With the conference championships and the playoff, it’s not just about beating Michigan anymore. It’s about winning the Big Ten Championship and making the playoff.”

 

Jones’ comments are sure to spark debate among fans of both Ohio State and Michigan. The two teams have been rivals for over a century, with their annual matchup often having significant implications for the Big Ten Conference championship.

 

However, in recent years, the rivalry has taken a backseat to the conference championship and playoff races. The introduction of the College Football Playoff in 2014 has created a new layer of competition in college football, with teams now vying for a spot in the four-team playoff rather than just focusing on winning their conference championship.

 

Jones believes that this shift in focus has contributed to the rivalry’s diminished significance. He pointed out that the Ohio State-Michigan game is no longer the sole focus of the season for either team.

 

“It’s not just about beating Michigan anymore,” Jones said. “It’s about winning the Big Ten Championship and making the playoff. I think that’s taken away from the rivalry a little bit.”

 

Despite his comments, Jones emphasized that the Ohio State-Michigan rivalry is still one of the greatest in college football. He acknowledged that the game still has significant implications for both teams and that the intensity and passion of the rivalry remain unchanged.

 

“The rivalry is still there,” Jones said. “It’s still one of the greatest rivalries in college football. The intensity, the passion, it’s all still there. But I think the focus has shifted a little bit.”

 

Jones’ comments are sure to spark a lively debate among fans of both Ohio State and Michigan. While some may agree with his assessment, others may argue that the rivalry remains as strong as ever.

 

Regardless of one’s opinion, it’s clear that the Ohio State-Michigan rivalry remains one of the most iconic and storied in college football. The two teams will meet again on November 25th in Ann Arbor, with the game sure to be a highly anticipated and intense matchup.

 

As for Jones, he’ll be watching the game from afar, proud of the role he played in the rivalry during his time at Ohio State.

 

“I’m proud to have been a part of that rivalry,” Jones said. “I’m proud to have worn the scarlet and gray and to have competed against Michigan. It’s a special rivalry, and I’m honored to have been a part of it.”