As the University of Michigan and Ohio State prepare to face off in one of college football's historic rivalries, political bets are being placed with confectionery stakes on the line. In what's become a tradition as sweet as the wagered candy, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is betting Michigan-shaped "Michi-gummies" against a basket of assorted Ohio treats proposed by Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine, signaling their anticipation for the 120th meeting in a matchup known as "The Game" and as reported by CBS News Detroit.
"I can't wait to watch the Michigan Wolverines beat the Ohio State Buckeyes for the fourth year in a row alongside thousands of college football fans across the nation," Whitmer expressed her confidence, as stated in a release highlighted by the Detroit Free Press. DeWine retorted with his own belief in his team, stating, "With a spot to play in the Big 10 championship on the line, Fran and I are confident the Buckeyes will emerge victorious in the greatest rivalry in college football," as this friendly rivalry goes beyond the football field, reaching into the gubernatorial offices of these neighboring states.
The governors have previously wagered on everything from ice cream to Vernor's Ginger Ale and Stewart’s Root Beer, showing that this annual bet is more than just a casual affair, however, with both governors sharing a bond forged during the pressures of managing state responses to the COVID-19 crisis – a sentiment Whitmer shared on "Jimmy Kimmel Live", according to Detroit Free Press. The game, set for a high-noon kickoff on Saturday at Ohio Stadium, carries high stakes for fans and includes a bit of state pride between the two governors. DeWine’s basket contains Ohio favorites, such as chocolate-covered pretzels from Cleveland and buckeyes from Perrysburg, while Whitmer has not had to provide Michigan delicacies in recent years due to the Wolverines' winning streak.
As Saturday approaches, the governors' wager adds to the anticipation for the atmosphere at Ohio Stadium, where college football fans from Michigan, Ohio, and across the nation will gather for another chapter in one of the sport’s most storied rivalries.
