Looking Back is a Special Feature by Jeff Cummins Highlighting Key Rivalry Games
The second installment of the series examining the football rivalry between Michigan and Michigan State takes us to 2012. During the previous season, Michigan football experienced a complete restoration of pride under new head coach Brady Hoke. The Wolverines defeated many opponents, and even won the Sugar Bowl. By 2012, alumni began arriving at their tailgate parties earlier and staying longer. Yes, it certainly was great to be a Michigan Wolverine!
But as the warm glow of the tailgate party faded, there was one nagging irritation: Michigan had lost to Michigan State in 2011, and the Wolverines hadnโt beaten the Spartans since 2007. Situations like that are simply intolerable.
So as the teams took the field for the 105th meeting in the rivalry, the stage was set for an instant classic. The rivalry between Michigan and Michigan State has featured some of the hardest hits in college football history, and the 2012 game would be one of the most physically brutal contests in the history of the rivalry. In a series that has featured Bubba Smith and LaMarr Woodley, Tony Mandarich and Steve Hutchinson, the 2012 game would become a classic for the ages, as Michigan offensive tackle Taylor Lewan and Michigan State defensive end William Gholston put on a legendary battle.
In the first quarter, Michigan quarterback connected with Jeremy Gallon, easily one of the most underrated receivers in Michigan history, and Gallon zigged and zagged for a 22-yard gain. As the game unfolded, it was clear that play was an aberration. Tough defense ruled the game, and both offenses had trouble moving the ball. In the second quarter, Michigan running back Fitz Toussaint carried the ball 38 yards to the Michigan State 6-yard line, giving the Wolverines their first good scoring opportunity. Four plays later, Brendan Gibbons kicked a 24-yard field goal to give Michigan a 3-0 lead. Later in the half, Matt Wile extended the Wolverinesโ lead with a 48-yard field goal. Michigan had the lead, but it would be a long time before the Wolverines could breathe easily.
Michigan State gradually began to seize the momentum in the third quarter. Andrew Maxwell connected with Paul Lang in the north end zone for a touchdown, and suddenly the Spartans had the lead, 7-6. The teams traded field goals, and with two minutes remaining, the Wolverines had a first down at their own 38-yard line. Time for just one final offensive series. With time winding down, Robinson completed a 19-yard pass to Drew Dileo, who reached the Michigan State 22-yard line. Gibbons then kicked a field goal that narrowly went through the uprights, and Michigan won, 12-10, in one of the most intense games in the history of the series.
Michigan’s season ended in disappointing fashion, but on this day, the Wolverines settled an old score with the Spartans.
Thanks to YouTube, the Big Ten Network, and YouTube poster WolverineDevotee for the attached video. As always, we own nothing and this blog post is provided strictly for the enjoyment of readers.
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