Chips on the Line in Michigan–Ohio Showdown

A Friendly Wager With High Spirits — and Plenty of Chips

One of the fiercest rivalries in college football is getting an extra dash of fun, pride, and potato chips this year. Ahead of Saturday’s matchup between the University of Michigan Wolverines and the Ohio State University Buckeyes, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine have placed a friendly wager celebrating the traditions — and snack foods — of their home states.

In the spirit of Big Ten rivalry, the wager pits two governors, two football cultures, and two states’ worth of iconic chip-makers against each other. And if there’s anything Midwesterners take nearly as seriously as football, it’s their snacks.

Michigan’s Governor Shows Confidence in Maize and Blue

Governor Whitmer made her position clear: she’s all in on the Wolverines. With two daughters who attended the University of Michigan, Whitmer speaks from the heart — and from the home turf.

“As the mom of two Wolverines, I know Michigan will bring strength, grit, and championship swagger to The Game,” Whitmer said. “I encourage every Michigander to wear Maize and Blue as we cheer on the Leaders and the Best in the biggest game of the year. I am confident that the Wolverines can beat that school down south for the fifth year in a row. Go Blue!”

The message is unmistakable. Whitmer has faith in the Wolverines to carry on their winning streak, aiming for a fifth consecutive victory this Saturday.

That confidence is backed with a uniquely Michigan twist: potato chips. Whitmer’s wager includes Detroit’s iconic Better Made, Traverse City’s Great Lakes Potato Chips, and Waterford’s Downey’s Potato Chips — a trio that Michiganders proudly stand behind the same way they stand behind their team.

Ohio’s Governor Counters With Buckeye Pride

While Michigan fans sport their Maize and Blue with fervor, Ohio governor Mike DeWine is equally confident that Ohio State will reclaim bragging rights.

“Every year, this rivalry brings out the best of Ohio — our pride, passion, and belief in the Buckeyes,” DeWine said. “I’m confident that Coach Ryan Day and this Buckeyes team will bring home the win. Ohioans know what toughness looks like, and we will see that on full display this Saturday. Go Bucks!”

DeWine’s wager comes with its own lineup of Ohio’s favorite chips: Conn’s from Zanesville, Grippo’s from Cincinnati, Jones’ from Mansfield, and Mikesell’s, one of the state’s oldest snack manufacturers. He also included Marsha’s Homemade Buckeyes, a sweet homage to Ohio’s beloved mascot — and a not-so-subtle hint at the outcome he hopes to see.

A Midwest Matchup Steeped in Tradition

Whether it’s the storied coaching legacies, generations of alumni, or the simple fact that neither side wants to lose a full year of bragging rights, this rivalry runs deep. “The Game” draws millions of viewers annually and paints the Midwest in two bold colors: Maize and Blue, Scarlet and Gray.

The Wolverines and Buckeyes will face off on November 29 in Ann Arbor, where Michigan hopes to extend its winning streak while Ohio State looks to break the cycle and reclaim dominance.

The governors’ wager adds a lighthearted touch to the anticipation, underscoring how sports can unite states in friendly rivalry — even as fans prepare to spend four quarters cheering like the fate of the world depends on it.

What’s at Stake?

Beyond pride (and potato chips), the exchange represents two states rallying behind their teams with classic Midwestern good humor. Whoever loses must ship their state’s chips across the border, offering public bragging rights to the winner.

For now, Whitmer and DeWine — like millions of fans — can only watch, wait, and hope their team brings home the win.

One thing is certain: no matter which governor ends up mailing a care package, both states will savor every moment of this timeless rivalry.