Nick Saban Slams Ohio State Fans for Their Extreme Fixation on Michigan Rivalry

Nick Saban believes Ohio State enthusiasts should move on from their fixation with “That Team Up North.”

With a critical rematch against No. 1 Oregon in the college football playoff quarterfinals just days away, No. 8 Ohio State fans are still reeling.

Even after a commanding win over No. 9 Tennessee in the postseason’s opening round, Buckeyes followers can’t shake off their regular season defeat to their archrival, Michigan.

Ex-Alabama coach Nick Saban has some blunt advice for Ohio State fans: Get Over It.

“These Ohio State fans have a psychotic obsession with Michigan, and they really need some therapy or something to fix it,” Saban commented on The Pat McAfee Show on Friday. “They have a shot at the national championship, and yet no one is excited about their chance to compete because they lost to Michigan. It was a hard-fought game, and they lost due to some errors, but those are fixable issues.”

Saban believes that, despite their previous loss, the Buckeyes may be the strongest team remaining in the playoffs.

“I really think this might be the most talented team in the playoffs if they play up to their potential,” Saban noted. “They have it all – offense, defense, you name it.”

Indeed, Ohio State has allowed their rivalry with “That Team Up North” to cloud their focus somewhat. Before their crucial game against the Wolverines, head coach Ryan Day described losing to Michigan as “the worst thing that’s happened” to his family, second only to his father’s death. Following the defeat, as tensions flared and players clashed over flag-planting antics, Day was left in shocked silence.

As Saban pointed out, it’s time to move forward. The Buckeyes are just three victories away from a national championship, and the only direction to look is ahead. Their rematch against Oregon is scheduled for Wednesday, Jan. 1, at 3 p.m. ET, broadcasting on ESPN.

Latest Updates in College Football