The Game 2003 (November 22, 2003):
Tressel's only loss in The Game: *ichigan 35, Ohio State 21
The Game 2004 (November 20, 2004):
The Buckeyes were huge underdogs, but received breakout performances from quarterback Troy Smith (386 total yards, 3 total TDs), wide receiver Teddy Ginn (210 all-purpose yards including an 82-yard punt return for a TD), and Anthony Gonzalez (a 68-yard TD reception to open the scoring). Smith, Ginn, and Gonzo would also play large roles in the next two Games.
Final score: Ohio State 37, *ichigan 21
The Game 2005 (November 19, 2005):
Despite having a huge edge in total yards (418 to 255), fumbles and mistakes by the special teams kept this Game close. In fact, the Buckeyes trailed 21 to 12 with 7:49 left on the clock. Troy Smith began the comeback with a quick scoring drive highlighted by a 27-yard pass to Anthony Gonzalez, his own 14-yard scramble, and 1 26-yard touchdown strike to Santonio Holmes.
Still trailing 21 to 19, the Buckeyes forced a punt and got the ball back at their own 12-yard line with 4:18 left in The Game. After a several short passes got the ball down to the Michigan 30-yard line with 47 seconds left, Smith connected with Gonzalez on a 26-yard pass now known simply as The Catch. Two plays later, the Buckeyes were able to punch the ball in for the go-ahead touchdown.
Final score: Ohio State 25, *ichigan 21
