Ohio State and Michigan Battle Through Blizzard in 1950 "Snow Bowl"

The 1950 matchup between the Buckeyes and Wolverines was played in treacherous conditions, becoming a legendary game in college football history.

Feb. 7, 2026 at 2:07pm

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In 1950, the annual football game between Ohio State and Michigan was played in the midst of a severe blizzard in Columbus, with temperatures below freezing, high winds, and heavy snowfall. Despite the extreme weather, over 50,000 fans braved the elements to watch the game, which became known as the "Snow Bowl." Michigan defeated Ohio State 9-3 in a game marked by poor field conditions, numerous punts, and very little offensive production from either team.

Why it matters

The 1950 "Snow Bowl" game between Ohio State and Michigan has become an iconic moment in college football history, remembered for the incredible weather conditions the players and fans endured. The game highlighted the passion and dedication of both teams and their supporters, as well as the unpredictable nature of the sport when faced with extreme environmental challenges.

The details

The game was expected to be played in the blizzard, and Ohio State athletic director Dick Larkins and coach Wes Fesler decided to proceed as planned after consulting with Michigan and Big Ten officials. The weather conditions were brutal, with 5 inches of snow on the ground at kickoff and winds up to 29 mph creating a biting wind chill. Despite the harsh conditions, over 50,000 fans attended the game. Michigan took a 9-3 lead into halftime after blocking a kick that rolled out of the end zone for a safety and blocking a punt that they recovered for a touchdown. The second half saw little offensive production, as the teams combined for just 61 total yards and punted 45 times, with some punts coming on first down as they tried to score on defense rather than offense.

  • The game was played on November 25, 1950.
  • Kickoff occurred with 5 inches of snow on the ground.

The players

Wes Fesler

The head coach of the Ohio State Buckeyes at the time, who decided to play the game despite the blizzard conditions.

Bennie Oosterbaan

The head coach of the Michigan Wolverines, who did not want to play the game in the blizzard but was told Michigan would forfeit if it was postponed.

Dick Larkins

The Ohio State athletic director who decided to proceed with the game after consulting with Michigan and Big Ten officials.

Vic Janowicz

The Ohio State kicker who made a 38-yard field goal in the game, despite the freezing temperatures and snow making it difficult to grip the ball.

Bob Momsen

The Ohio State player who recovered a blocked kick that led to the Buckeyes' only points in the game.

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What they’re saying

“It was like a nightmare. My hands were numb (and blue). I had no feeling in them and I don't know how I hung onto the ball. It was terrible. You knew what you wanted to do, but you couldn't do it.”

— Vic Janowicz, Ohio State Kicker (Ohio State University Monthly)

“The snow, wind, and insecure footing made the game a mockery – an imitation of football only by a stretch of the imagination. The two teams huffed, puffed, bumped and slid. Cold hands refused to hang on to the ball.”

— Anonymous Alum (Ohio State University Monthly)

What’s next

The 1950 "Snow Bowl" game between Ohio State and Michigan has become a legendary moment in college football history, and the story of the game continues to be told and celebrated by fans of both teams. While the on-field action was limited due to the extreme weather conditions, the game stands as a testament to the passion and dedication of the players, coaches, and fans who braved the blizzard to witness the annual rivalry matchup.

The takeaway

The 1950 "Snow Bowl" game between Ohio State and Michigan demonstrates the unpredictable and challenging nature of college football, where even the most anticipated matchups can be dramatically impacted by uncontrollable environmental factors. The game has become an iconic moment in sports history, celebrated for the perseverance and determination of all those involved in facing the blizzard conditions head-on.