Why Jim Harbaugh’s departure from Michigan leaves Ohio State football with mixed feelings…
Any disruption to the momentum Michigan built in recent years is seen as positive news for Ohio State football.
Jim Harbaugh has reportedly rejected a lucrative contract offer to return to the NFL with the Los Angeles Chargers. As the key figure behind the Wolverines’ resurgence in the Big Ten, he leaves behind a national championship trophy and faces two ongoing NCAA investigations.
In mid-November 2021, Buckeye fans were optimistic that Harbaugh might stay indefinitely. However, with three consecutive victories in The Game, along with controversial comments about Ryan Day and an unresolved sign-stealing issue, Harbaugh has transformed from a target of criticism to a genuine Michigan villain in the eyes of OSU fans.
The news of Harbaugh’s departure evokes mixed feelings at Ohio State. While there is uncertainty about Michigan’s ability to sustain its recent success without him, his exit deprives the Buckeyes of the satisfaction of witnessing him concede defeat to an OSU coach on the field. Moreover, Ohio State will not see him held accountable for alleged infractions that led to his suspension for half of last season’s regular-season games.
Harbaugh successfully turned the tide in the rivalry, caused unease in Columbus, and claimed the title of the standard-bearer for success outside the SEC footprint, previously held by the Buckeyes. He secured victories in The Game with quarterback J.J. McCarthy, whom OSU passed on, and now heads to the NFL alongside Justin Herbert.
Ohio State is also unlikely to benefit from one consequence of Harbaugh’s departure: the 30-day transfer window for Michigan players. When Nick Saban retired, OSU successfully recruited top talents from Alabama. However, given the rivalry’s intensity, it is doubtful whether any Wolverine player would cross the divide to join the Scarlet and Gray, even for a significant role.
Despite Ohio State’s recent success in player retention and acquisition, the absence of Harbaugh on the opposing side raises questions about the sweetness of a potential victory without the satisfaction of seeing him on the receiving end of defeat.
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