# Michigan coach downplays Ohio State rivalry: 'Hate is a strong word'

Michigan's new head football coach said he avoids describing the Ohio State rivalry with the word "hate," calling it a strong term. His comments set a measured tone ahead of one of college football's most intense annual matchups.

**Importance:** 2/5

## Sources

### Sports
- [Fox News Sports](https://www.foxnews.com/sports/michigans-new-head-coach-pours-cold-water-ohio-state-rivalry-hate-strong-word) — Fri, 31 Jul 2026 10:13:12 -0400