For the Michigan State football team, Michigan is THE rival

EAST LANSING - His voice grew louder, more passionate.

When Michigan State coach Mark Dantonio began discussing the Michigan rivalry during his weekly press conference Tuesday, you could hear in his voice how important this game is.

“Every football needs a rivalry,” Dantonio said. “Every program needs a rivalry.”

For Dantonio, at Michigan State, it is Michigan.

The two schools have played over 100 times - 101 to be exact - and the rivalry has been played continuously for 64 seasons.

Michigan leads the series, 67-29-5, but the home team has won the 12 of the last 17 games.

“I think the guys from Michigan understand what it’s like,” Michigan State left tackle Rocco Cironi said. “The help from the media, you guys boosting it up, helps us realize how important it is.

“This can make or break either team’s season. It’s a big deal.”

Michael Rothstein covers University of Michigan sports for AnnArbor.com. He can be reached at (734) 623-2558, by e-mail at michaelrothstein@annarbor.com or follow along on Twitter @mikerothstein.