Michigan RB Hassan Haskins against Ohio State. Nov 27, 2021; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; Michigan Wolverines running back Hassan Haskins (25) against the Ohio State Buckeyes in the first half at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

If the Ohio State Buckeyes beat the Maryland Terrapins and the Michigan Wolverines beat the Illinois Fighting Illini on Saturday afternoon as expected, next week’s rivalry showdown between the Buckeyes and the Wolverines will be a top-five matchup with major College Football Playoff implications.

The winner of next week’s game would obviously have a much better chance of ultimately making the College Football Playoff. But as college football analyst Desmond Howard explained on ESPN’s College GameDay pregame show, there is a scenario where both teams can make the playoff – even if it’s not likely.

“I think we already know that it’s an elimination game for Michigan because the committee already told us they don’t like their non-conference schedule,” Howard said on ESPN Saturday morning, according to On3. “So if Michigan loses, Michigan’s out. There’s no hope for Michigan. Ohio State’s the one.

“If Ohio State loses a game at home, they are a back-door away if they can get in the College Football Playoff. I don’t think so, especially with all the SEC stuff we just got through talking about.”

If Ohio State does lose to Michigan, the Buckeyes would need a little help with other playoff contenders losing across the country, but it’s certainly possible that Ohio State loses on Saturday and still finds its way into the College Football Playoff.

[On3]