Michigan's Derrick Moore Questions Ohio State's National Title Validity

In a recent statement, Michigan defensive end Derrick Moore raised eyebrows by questioning the legitimacy of Ohio State's national championship victory, suggesting it lacked substance due to the Buckeyes' defeat against Michigan earlier in the season. The comments came during the Big Ten media days held on July 24, 2025, where the atmosphere was charged with excitement and rivalry as college football gears up for the new season.

Moore's remarks stem from Ohio State's remarkable journey through the inaugural 12-team College Football Playoff, where they emerged victorious despite being the eighth seed. They secured their national title after defeating four consecutive teams, a feat that has sparked debate among fans and analysts alike regarding the nature of their victory. "It's not a real win if y'all didn't beat us," Moore remarked, emphasizing that the Buckeyes' championship run was facilitated by the playoff expansion, which he believes allowed them a more favorable path to the title.

This rivalry, deeply rooted in college football history, saw its latest chapter unfold when Michigan defeated Ohio State in Columbus during the regular season finale, clinching a narrow 13-10 victory. This marked Michigan's fourth consecutive win over their longstanding rivals, further intensifying the competitive spirit between the two programs. The Wolverines had previously claimed the national championship in 2023, just before the playoff format was expanded.

Michigan's head coach, Sherrone Moore, took a more diplomatic approach when addressing Derrick Moore's comments. He acknowledged Ohio State's accomplishments, stating, "They won the national title. They were the best team at the end of the year, so I give them all the credit. They were well deserving. They played really well. They obviously won it all. So kudos to them." This comment reflects a more traditional view of sportsmanship amid a rivalry that often incites passionate responses.

The rivalry reached a boiling point last season, culminating in a notable brawl following the game when Michigan players planted their flag on Ohio State's Block O logo at midfield, an act that was met with fierce backlash and physical altercations between players. Derrick Moore expressed regret over the incident, stating, "I feel like I could have [done] a better job as a leader of not letting that get out [of control] like that." This acknowledgment highlights the intense emotions that accompany such a fierce rivalry.

Adding to the controversy, Moore also referenced Ohio State state representative Josh Williams, who previously proposed a bill categorizing flag planting at Ohio Stadium as a felony. Moore dismissed the proposal as absurd, remarking, "That was actually crazy. But all I got to say is, that's Ohio for you." These remarks play into the playful yet contentious banter that characterizes the Michigan-Ohio State rivalry.

As the Wolverines prepare to host the Buckeyes on November 29, 2025, the anticipation for this showdown continues to build. Both teams are coming off strong seasons, and the implications of this game extend beyond just the rivalry; it could play a significant role in shaping the playoff landscape for the upcoming season. The continued discourse surrounding their past encounters and the evolving nature of college football playoffs will undoubtedly add layers of intrigue to this historic matchup.

In conclusion, while Derrick Moore's comments reflect a strong sense of pride and rivalry spirit, they also underscore the broader conversations about the legitimacy and structure of college football playoffs. As the sport evolves, so too will the narratives that drive its passionate fanbase, ensuring that rivalries like Michigan vs. Ohio State remain at the forefront of college sports discussions.