Al Washington grew up around the state of Ohio; now he's trying to beat them

ANN ARBOR – Al Washington could have the most unique perspective of all players on the Michigan football team regarding his rivalry with the state of Ohio.

Washington, Wolverines' first year defensive assistant, grew up in Columbus, Ohio. His father, also called Al Washington, played for OSU and his famous head coach Woody Hayes.

And yes, Washington admits frankly that he wanted to play for the Buckeyes by growing up.

"I mean, yes," Washington, 34, said Wednesday. "From a very young age, it's a high level, so yes, I would say yes, but it was not an obsession.

"But absolutely, you wear it a little with you."

Washington ended up attending Boston College, where he later joined the coach alongside Michigan's defensive coordinator, Don Brown. His most recent stoppage of training, Cincinnati, brought him back to Ohio.

But he says he has heard stories from his father about Hayes and legendary Michigan coach Bo Schembechler. Washington's father was part of the OSU team in 1978 when Hayes hit a Clemson player.

"I thought it was pretty cool," said Washington. "He told me growing up how much he loved them, but how much respect (Hayes) and Bo had." And the players of the time – even though they were competitive – they had one. little more."

Saturday, Michigan and Ohio State will meet on the football field for the 114th time in Columbus (noon, FOX), a match to decide who will represent the Big Ten East in the championship title game on Dec. 1.

Michigan players who live out of state also embrace the rivalry of the Ohio State

Emotions, of course, are skyrocketing. State Michigan players on Monday explained how much they "despised" the Ohio State. Karan Higdon even bit on the opportunity to secure victory for the Wolverines, ranked fourth.

"I'm emotionally invested right now, just like the players and coaches," said Washington. "Just from the point of view that it's not just another game. We all know it."

Washington claims that this game is an important part of the Columbus culture. It's also a place where Michigan has not won since 2000, adding to the frustration of Wolverines fans.

As for his father's father, Saturday?

"We should ask him," said Washington. "I did not talk to him.I said Sunday, it was the last time I had talked to him until next week.

"No, he pulls for us – he is – it's his team – but he pulls for us."