Genius Products
Tomorrow’s installment of “The Game” is not anticipated to be close, with Ohio State favored by more than 20 points. And while certain historical accomplishments could take place, such as the Buckeyes winning for the fifth-straight time, “The Game” does not have the hype or excitement of years past.
Fans who want to relive a few of the outstanding OSU victories from the previous 104 clashes with the maize and blue can pick up a new DVD set titled, “Rivalry Series: Ohio State Beats Michigan.”
The three-disc DVD collection provides fans commercial-free complete game original broadcasts of three monumental Ohio State victories over Michigan.
In 1979 the No. 2 Buckeyes were unbeaten when they visited Ann Arbor. Michigan led 15-12 midway through the fourth quarter when OSU’s Jim Laughlin and Ernie Andria blocked a punt which Todd Bell returned 18 yards for a touchdown as the Buckeyes emerged victorious 18-15.
The 2002 game features Will Allen’s interception that sealed a trip to the Fiesta Bowl, and the bittersweet presence of Maurice Clarett.
Of course, no analysis nor review of the Michigan-Ohio State rivalry would be complete without mentioning the “Game of the Century.” The 2006 clash between No. 1 Ohio State and No. 2 Michigan is the third DVD in the collection.
The DVDs are a great way to watch the entirety of three OSU major victories and for younger fans to laugh at the mustaches players sported in 1979.
But the DVD set lacks special features; there are no player interviews nor coaches commentaries – they are simply the games.
This is not to say the quality is poor, quite the opposite, but in an age of special features, directors cuts and Easter eggs, the three-disc set seems incomplete.
If you’re looking to get a holiday gift and don’t want to break the bank, “Rivalry Series: Ohio State Beats Michigan” is available at the official team shop via the athletics Web site, www.ohiostatebuckeyes.com.
James Crepea can be reached at [email protected].
