With the fate of the free world hanging in the balance, we like to pretend that Ohio State-Michigan is life or death.

I checked in with a few area families who know better.

They might be crazy about the Buckeyes.

OK, they ARE crazy about the Buckeyes.

The Mosers met as undergrads at Ohio State, and their autumn Saturdays still revolve around football. The Olsens keep a giant inflatable Brutus on watch in the front yard. The Seiberts fire a replica Civil War cannon for every touchdown.

They’re Buckeyes through and through.

But they all share something else, too.

They’re grateful for — GASP! — the University of Michigan.

No, not the football team. Don’t be ridiculous. The hospital. Mott Children’s. The renowned pediatric center that became their family’s lifeline.

This Thanksgiving,

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