In July 2026, during the Big Ten Media Days held in Chicago, Kyle Whittingham, the new head coach of the Michigan Wolverines, shared his thoughts on the intense rivalry between Michigan and Ohio State. Whittingham, who previously led the Utah Utes in their rivalry against BYU, acknowledged the significance of the Michigan-Ohio State matchup, often referred to as 'The Game.' He emphasized that while he understands the rivalry's intensity, he does not feel any personal hatred towards Ohio State or its head coach, Ryan Day. Whittingham stated that he wants to win the game as much as anyone in Ann Arbor, but he believes that a rivalry can be fierce and emotional without the element of hatred. He mentioned his positive interactions with Day at the Rose Bowl and noted that Urban Meyer, the former Ohio State head coach, had a different perspective on the rivalry, having expressed feelings of hatred towards Michigan during his tenure. Whittingham's stance reflects a more sportsmanlike approach to rivalries, suggesting that competition can exist without animosity. This perspective may influence how the Michigan football program approaches its rivalry with Ohio State moving forward, potentially fostering a more respectful competitive environment while still aiming for victory in one of college football's most storied matchups.