This discussion (obviously) applies strictly to Men’s Soccer.
Don't forget that Buckeyes were runners-up to Wake Forest in 2007. They have fallen are some hard times since then. Even though Akron historically dominates in the W/L record, the match is quite competitive each year, often more competitive than it (on paper) should be. But there is more at stake in this annual derby than mere bragging rights. These two programs are vying for the same recruits, particularly from the two Ohio hotbeds of high school soccer, NEO and Greater CLB.
****Indiana**** is another topic entirely. For those who need to be told, each asterisk represents a championship. We used to play them every year. Now, we play them about every fourth year. Recently, we have got the best of them, though the historical W/L record is lopsided heavily in their favor. Hoosiers are what the Zips aspire to be, perennial contender for the College Cup. And yes, Indiana is vying for many of the same recruits, though probably on a more national than regional level.
These two programs are our greatest MSOC rivals, each for somewhat different reasons. Which is the greater I cannot say. We have a long history with both. I never want to stop playing OSU, be they in a down cycle or not. We should play them every year. I also believe we should renew the annual clash with IU. These enduring rivalries are good for collegiate soccer.