COLUMBUS, Ohio — As per tradition, the Ohio State Buckeyes will take on the University of Michigan Wolverines this Saturday in what's known as "The Game."

But also with the tradition comes the annual wager between Gov. Mike DeWine, R-Ohio, and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, D-Michigan. 

"With a spot to play in the Big 10 championship on the line, Fran and I are confident the Buckeyes will emerge victorious in the greatest rivalry in college football," said DeWine. "I am proud to engage in this friendly bet with Governor Whitmer, showcasing some of the finest treats Ohio has to offer. O-H!" 

For the wager, DeWine offered a candy basket filled from local Ohio candy companies and flavors, including buckeyes from Perrysburg’s Marsha’s Homemade Buckeyes, chocolate covered pretzels from Cleveland’s Malley’s Chocolates, assorted chocolates from Dayton’s Esther Price Candies and a bag of Bryan-based Dum-Dums lollipops.   

Last year, DeWine wagered a peppermint stick, hot cocoa peppermint, and to throw in some Ohio flavor, a cow patty ice cream from Young's Jersey Dairy in Yellow Springs and black raspberry chip ice cream from Graeter's in Cincinnati.

“I can’t wait to watch the Michigan Wolverines beat The Ohio State Buckeyes for the fourth year in a row alongside thousands of college football fans across the nation,” said Whitmer. “I’m confident our Wolverines are going to come out on top on Saturday, and I’m happy to wager Governor DeWine some amazing Michigan-shaped gummies. Go Blue!” 

In return, Whitmer has wagered a pack of Michi-Gummies from Shurms Candy, a local Michigan company with locations across the state. The candy is in the shape of the Mitten State and flavors associated with Michigan: cherry, raspberry, apple, grape, strawberry and watermelon. 

Last year, Whitmer wagered a gift package of ice cream from Zingerman’s.

The game kicks off at noon on Buckeye turf.