ANN ARBOR, Mich. -- At Big Ten media days nearly two weeks ago, new Michigan football head coach Kyle Whittingham created a bit of a kerfuffle by somewhat downplaying the Ohio State game, noting that it's the most important game, but that the team is preparing for the other games, too. He added that he wishes there was less hate in the rivalry.
That caused all kinds of commentary across social media and beyond, with many wondering aloud whether or not Whittingham is suited for this rivalry. However, on Monday, nearly a week into fall camp, he clarified his position.
Asked about The Game and his comments, he quickly interrupted, wondering himself if vitriol is the answer to winning.
"Will we have a better chance to win if I hated them? I don't understand,"
Whittingham said. "Whatever gives us the best chance to win, I'm all for. I want to beat them worse than anybody around. I don't know how that got to be such a hot topic."
Make no mistake, Whittingham says, The Game is being emphasized.
One of the big changes that former head coach Jim Harbaugh made was in 2021, he introduced signage in Schembechler Hall, a countdown clock, and most importantly, the 'Beat Ohio' drill during regular practices. Whittingham notes that all of that still exists in Ann Arbor.
"There's periods in practice segments or things in the weight room that's talked about," Whittingham said. "We've got the countdown clocks. I'm not trying to downplay that at all. It's a huge game, gigantic. It's something that we all have in the back of our mind 24-7. I probably should have worded it differently, but that game is of the utmost importance."
Ultimately, Whittingham says he wants to beat Ohio State more than anything. Him wanting less hate and vitriol doesn't mean he doesn't want to beat the Buckeyes and isn't doing what it takes to do so.
"Just don't confuse that with a lack of desire to win The Game. We obviously understand that that is The Game that's important."
This article originally appeared on Wolverines Wire: Kyle Whittingham clarifies stance on Ohio State game
