The Gold Pants Story

The Ohio State Michigan series began in 1887. Ohio State did not score against Michigan until the sixth game and did not win until the sixteenth contest. However, things began to even up when Francis A. Schmidt arrived at The Ohio State University as head coach in 1934.

Michigan had beaten the Buckeyes nine of the twelve games preceding Schmidt’s arrival. But sure of himself and his players he told them, “Of course we can win – Michigan puts their pants on one leg at a time just like we do!”

The Buckeyes then proved it on the field by beating Michigan four straight times. Ever since, each Ohio State team member that beats Michigan receives a miniature gold pant pendant to commemorate the victory.

Since the Gold Pants tradition began in 1934 the rivalry is virtually even.