Michigan's Brady Hoke, Ohio State's Urban Meyer are worthy successors to The Game's giants

COLUMBUS, Ohio – Michigan-Ohio State was just another game, for the most part, until Woody Hayes and Bo Schembechler helped transform it into the over-the-top grudge match called "The Game."

Now, more than 40 years later, two coaches steeped in the rivalry — each more than willing to toss a little disrespect toward the other side — will be prowling the sidelines in the 109th meeting on Saturday.

Just like Hayes and Schembechler, Michigan's Brady Hoke and Ohio State's Urban Meyer are Ohio natives who don't do a very good job of hiding the fact that they can barely abide their chief rival.

The fourth-ranked Buckeyes want to complete a perfect season — if that's possible without a bowl trip. The No. 20 Wolverines are shooting for an even better bowl.