Undefeated Spartans feeling the tide turn in their direction in bitter rivalry with Michigan

Posted on Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 6:23 p.m.

Undefeated Spartans feeling the tide turn in their direction in bitter rivalry with Michigan

By Jeff Arnold

Flanked by teammates Mark Dell, left, and Micajah Reynolds, right, Michigan State center John Stipek parades the Paul Bunyan trophy toward Spartan fans in the south end zone at Michigan Stadium Saturday after MSU beat in-state rival Michigan 34-17 for the third straight year. Lon Horwedel | AnnArbor.com

The green and white-clad players approached the Block M at the center of Michigan Stadium Saturday and hoist the Paul Bunyan Trophy over their heads, allowing the statue one final glimpse of Ann Arbor before it made the return trip to East Lansing.

As the trophy was thrust into the air, a Michigan State helmet sat atop the lumberjack's head, marking the first time in 43 years the Spartans had captured three straight wins against their bitter in-state rivals.

Afterward, in the stadium's bowels, victorious players and coaches talked of the victory's deeper meaning and were asked if a series once dominated by the Wolverines was steadily moving in a different direction.

If recent history - including Saturday's 34-17 win over the previously-unbeaten Wolverines - is any indication, the answer is becoming more evident.

"The tide has changed," Michigan State defensive coordinator Pat Narduzzi said. "This is something these kids will have for the rest of their lives. Not too many teams do that."

Several times last week, Michigan coach Rich Rodriguez referred to the annual showdown with the Spartans as a huge game. He repeatedly said his players and coaches understood the significance of the rivalry, which along with Ohio State and Notre Dame, is one of the most important games play each season.

But for Michigan State players, one thing was crystal clear: Winning three straight for the first time since the mid-1960s carries a lot of weight in East Lansing.

"It's real big," Michigan State senior wide receiver Mark Dell said. "As much as Michigan may not think it is, it's real big for us. It's just a blessing to win three straight."

Michigan junior wide receiver Darryl Stonum hangs his head as the last minute ticks off the clock of their 34-17 loss to Michigan State at Michigan Stadium on Saturday. Melanie Maxwell I AnnArbor.com

But after the latest Spartans' triumph, Michigan State players said wins like Saturdays would be remembered for a lifetime. For the Spartans' seniors, finding a way to post three straight wins over the Wolverines was deemed career-defining, perhaps finally putting any talk of Mike Hart's infamous little brother comments in 2007 to rest once and for all.

"Maybe some day the little brother grows up and can at least compete with the big brother and makes it a game every week," Michigan State coach Mark Dantonio said.

Michigan hasn't won since 2007 when Hart fueled the rivalry by referring to Michigan State as the little brother. It's a moment Michigan State players say they haven't forgotten, providing motivation for their three straight victories in the rivalry.

"That was probably the worst feeling, being up in the game, then losing and then the comments after the game," Michigan State linebacker Greg Jones said, referring back to the Spartans' last loss in the rivalry. "I don't think any of us wanted to ever feel that again and that was the motivation toward the end to just win."

Following the celebration at mid-field, Spartans players rushed to the corner of the end zone, propelling their prized trophy toward the stands. As chants of "Go Green, Go White" reverberated in the air, players rushed toward the tunnel without making any gestures to what Michigan fans remained.

"We were going to stay classy and get the job done," Jones said.

Dantonio, who improved to 3-1 against Michigan, called his team's three straight wins "special", saying the accomplishment that will stick with him for the rest of his life. Quarterback Kirk Cousins echoed his coach's feelings, understanding what three straight wins in the rivalry means.

But with a year left in his career, Cousins - who engineered five straight Michigan State scoring drives Saturday - understands it's an accomplishment that isn't yet completed for his career.

"Now, we're going to focus on beating them next year and they're going to focus on beating us next year," Cousins said. "The way a rivalry works is that the next year is what matters and we're going to try to win another next year."

Jeff Arnold covers sports for AnnArbor.com and can be reached at (734) 623-2554 or by e-mail at jeffarnold@annarbor.com. Follow him on Twitter @jeffreyparnold.

Comments

Lokalisierung

Wed, Oct 13, 2010 : 1:57 p.m.

"If you blue and gold fans are going to continue to embarass yourselves by calling MSU "lil-sis" This is actually the term MSU fans call UM...which is why they were chanting it at the game. "Little bother" came out and Michigan hasn't won since...so how would that change to lil sis?

Terrin

Wed, Oct 13, 2010 : 12:10 p.m.

MIchigan is quickly on it's way to become another Notre Dame. Namely, a team that lives off of the glory of it's past performances. Star players want to go to a school where they have a strong chance to play in the NFL. That means playing for a team that wins. Michigan's power to recruiting is going to suffer.

stunhsif

Tue, Oct 12, 2010 : 7:05 a.m.

If you blue and gold fans are going to continue to embarass yourselves by calling MSU "lil-sis" I suppose we need to come up with a name for the RR Wolverines. How about "Big Sissy"? Does that work for ya?

stunhsif

Tue, Oct 12, 2010 : 7 a.m.

A big "thank you" to Mike Hart for his comment of "little brother". You woke up the Green and White and moving forward, life will never be the same for the blue and gold.

truebluefan

Mon, Oct 11, 2010 : 7:39 p.m.

Yelmonian -- 1) Do you answer for Announcer Man? 2) I should've excluded Theo212. His goal is comedy. Not only does he think Denard will win the Heisman this year, but he also wants to retroactively award the Heisman to Denard for *last year*. I have to admit...that was funny.

hieyeq

Mon, Oct 11, 2010 : 7:36 p.m.

To mlivesaline... We'd love to play a "good" Michigan team...when you gonna have one?

Yelmonian

Mon, Oct 11, 2010 : 6:57 p.m.

Truebluefan... Theo predicted a National Championship undefeated team... and a heisman winner....

truebluefan

Mon, Oct 11, 2010 : 4:46 p.m.

Announcer Man -- Michigan won it all in the 1997 season, not 1995. Also, who on this board predicted Michigan would go 12-0 this year? Yeah, go ahead and spend all day finding me those two guys. If I remember correctly, most people said 7-5 or 8-4, no? How is 5-1 suddenly off track and unacceptable? Losing to State is tough but it appears State is for real this year.

Kubrick66

Mon, Oct 11, 2010 : 3:18 p.m.

TheAnnouncerMan007... Thank you for sharing your opinion. Hope it made you feel better. Now what? Whether a fan chooses to look at the football program as half full or half empty makes little difference. It's a personal choice. Right or wrong doesn't even play a part in the equation because like I said our opinions mean nothing, change nothing. We're nothing more than anonymous words on a computer screen. To think we are anything more is the real delusion. You don't like the direction the program is headed... Try actually doing something to change it. Send your expertise to David Brandon, Mary Sue Coleman, members of the board of regents - Al Glick, or any other major donor. These comment sections are nothing more than a place to blow off steam, to express, rationalize- what we see, what we want to see and don't want to see. There is no right or wrong answer. This is not a vote on the Senate floor. Our comments don't change lives. It's simply personal opinion- sometime silly, informed, even outrageous- but just opinions that ultimately change nothing, grant no form of status and are eventually unceremoniously deleted. Go Blue!

Sean T.

Mon, Oct 11, 2010 : 2:01 p.m.

All I can say is Announcerman, Thank you!

Yelmonian

Mon, Oct 11, 2010 : 12:52 p.m.

Truebluefan, First and foremost, I am very tired of the rhetoric of UM's academics will draw in the best athletes. Enough, MSU provides a quality education. They provide many opportunities that athletes will very gladly accept. I received a quality education in Electrical Engineering, and I was quickly hired. I live in Washington, and have a good job. Nobody scoffs that I went to MSU. The only people that resort to that tactic, are the people that can no longer discuss the merits of UM athletics of today. At the top of the list though, UM is not pushing the academic pursuits to it's athletes...and that is why many fans of UM are mad at Jim Harbaugh. He went there. He studied there. He played there. He called out UM, telling it how it is, that UM football pushes it's players away from difficult degrees so they can focus on football. So the academic side is bogus. As I have previously posted before, MSU has found a coach that the Alumni Base and fans have a belief in. Dantonio embraces playing UM. There is no more intimidation, no more fear, none of that. That is why MSU fans are excited. That in itself is a step in the right direction. UM should embrace their history, but don't live in it. MSU is creating a solid footing in an effort to create a new future. UM fans may not want to take that too lightly.

JimB

Mon, Oct 11, 2010 : 12:37 p.m.

Excuses are for losers. MSU won by dominating all phases of the game from open to close. This is their year against UofM, make no mistake. Finally, U of M fans are subject to a program that is not elite now and no one knows how to handle it. Welcome to reality....just as every other program and fan base around the Big Ten has been subject to over the years. Deal with it, learn from it..and appreciate success when it comes your way again...no more crying.

mlivesaline

Mon, Oct 11, 2010 : 12:15 p.m.

Yes the Michigan football program is down right now, that's for sure. It's interesting to me that MSU is so happy right now. Yes they beaten Michigan 3 times in a row. But these last 3 years have been the worst 3 years for Michigan football since 1962. So what MSU really has accomplished is they've beaten a team that hasn't been this bad for almost 50 years. Congrats MSU. Let's see if you can beat a Michigan team when they're actually a good football team, then I'll take my hat off to you.

Jay Allen

Mon, Oct 11, 2010 : 12:13 p.m.

I was away this weekend in Chicago and have been anxious to get back. I am so proud to be a Maze & Blue guy and I support U-M football more than most of you know. However, enough of the phony bologna by a few of you. First of all, I cannot believe the EXCUSES that a few of you are putting out there. A "few" bad passes, then "bad calls" and the best one, "he's only a sophomore". MSU whooped up on us. Give them credit as they deserve it. Don't play the "Big 10 Title" card or say what MSU "needs" to do NOT to be "little brother", the problem is INWARD and not OUTWARD. Do not be a sorry looser and take attention away from the REAL (no very real) issues exist. Folks, we beat up on mediocre competition. I said it HERE on AA.Com that UConn was over rated and you RR pawns were all up in arms. I then said that while ND was a great win (for historical reasons) that ND used a back up QB for a 1.5 quarters and past that was not very good. We then beat on 2 JV teams and a bottom 1/3 Big 10 team. Those are facts, like it or lump it. Then MSU is coming to town. You people have us with -10- wins, Denard with the Heisman and because a few us say what is TRUE, you people call us out and say we are not "fans". You say because I use a phrase that is G-Rated (Kool-Aid) that it takes away from what I say. When are you people going to catch a glimmer of reality? So I say "Kool-Aid", I CANNOT (READ again) I CANNOT say what it REALLY is on this forum. But let's exchange e-mail addresses and I will not sugar coat it for you. MSU blew us out. The final score, which most of you only grasp, is not indicative of the beat down that was placed on us. Look in the first half, we had field position for most of it and what did we do? Nothing. MSU pounded the ball and then when our JV Defense got tired and forget how to tackle, they busted 2 runs LONG for TD's. The field was PERFECT. Conditions, PERFECT. Denard is a great QB that was shut down by a REAL defense. Now remember for those who ONLY look at the final score, defense has -11- players and ALL 11 showed up for MSU. Not the 5 or 6 we saw from out lackluster preseason schedule. U-M was exposed for what it is. A GREAT QB and -20- other bodies that do not have a clue. Toss in the coaching staff and we have a merry band of short bus students that are not worthy of S.I.D. duties in South Dakota. Now, let's get specific. @kubrick66: In the last few days you have almost reached tater status on your comments. Here are a few. "These comments are a gold mine! The irrational, illogical, emotionally driven responses based on one game of football is truly a sad commentary on our society in general. In other words... Get a grip! Show some composure. We're fans. Win or lose we are forever at the mercy of what happens on the field and are in no position to chance any of it. The mistake some of you fans make is that you actually convince yourself that your opinion matters... Guess what? It doesn't. I can't wait for Iowa. Look forward to a trip to Happy Valley... Etc, etc... Go Blue!" ODG....... How dare you call ANYONE out and use " irrational, illogical, emotionally driven responses". And when you say "get a grip", most of us already do. Hallucination is a treatable disorder and I am not sure what you like with your Kool-Aid, but it is too strong for you. And you want to talk about "opinion"? Seriously - you need to stop. @81wolverine: " Our defense isn't very good. And Denard had an off day. But, he's only a sophomore and this was his 6th game as a starter. He will learn from this loss and become a much better player because of it. There's still a lot of season left, and I'm not going to panic yet - unlike some people here." Where was this post before the MSU beat down? Our defense is deplorable. Denard had won the Heisman last week and he was still a sophomore. He cannot do it alone and that is what you saw. Against JV defenses, sure he can outrun them but against a Big-10 "marginal" defense, U-M's offense was exposed. As far as panicking, MOST of us that truly understand what has happened the last 3 years have been saying the same thing for MONTHS/YEARS. @do better: " Once again I am not a fan of either team. But for all you rich rod haters. Can you tell me when Michigan was a dominate team in colloge football?" How about 9, 10 or 11 years as the norm when Lloyd was here or when Bo was here? In '95 lloyd won it all. Or the years of tradition and being the winningest program in College football. I think that qualifies, don't you? If U-M had a 9 win season now, the boosters would do back flips down Main Street. @robbie webb: " Yeah, fire Rich Rod! He threw 3 interceptions and missed all those catches and tackles!...Oh wait. Haha! As much as this STINGS, you guys are acting as if MSU is a bad team. Reality check, look at what happened against Wisconsin. MSU is much more experienced. Michigan will win at least seven games this year, Rich Rodriguez will still be here. We all knew Michigan wasn't going to go undefeated. We all knew Denard Robinson was not going to do what he did the first five games all year, but I'll bet you what, he will only get better from this, as well as the rest of the team. The defense gave up some plays, but the offense didn't fair much better setting up for three touchdowns off 3 interceptions. On to Iowa! GO BLUE!!!" ODG.......But he did recruit the people that are incarcerated. But he did commit NCAA violations. But he did put this product on the field. But he did cause several QUALITY NCCA D1 football players to transfer elsewhere. Then you start with all of banter and excuses. "we all knew"! Really? Then why was this post and this opinion of the team not voiced before U-M was beat? @kubrick66: " This loss wasn't about a "great" MSU defense... Denard missed three open receivers in the end zone. Two thrown behind for INT's and another overthrown to Stonum. Yes, MSU made plays. But those turnovers were the difference in the game." Excuses. Period. Turnovers are PART of the game. Where did Couzens screw the pooch on the same field on the same day? Poorly thrown ducks are part of the game too. Stop with the excuses because MSU trounced us. @mitch: You simply have no understanding for the "game" of football, only outcomes. Time for a run.

truebluefan

Mon, Oct 11, 2010 : 11:48 a.m.

Yelmonian, MetricSU -- good points. We will know by the end of this season if RR truly is not working out. And David Brandon would pull the trigger for a new coach at that time. But at the end of the day, you both know full well that Michigan's academics and recruiting draw nationwide has been and will always be stronger than MSU's. You know it but it no doubt saddens you to acknowledge it. A few down years hurts a little right now. But a single good year will *easily* polish off any dust. You can take this to the bank: MSU will not enjoy long-term, generational type football success (10, 20, 30 years...) over Michigan. In other words, enjoy it while it lasts. Maybe take a few pictures and frame them for future reflecting?

Yelmonian

Mon, Oct 11, 2010 : 11:21 a.m.

I'm enjoying reading these posts. Paraphrasing... MSU's win doesn't count because we have 40 years of football greatness, and our history is what makes us great, and blah, blah, blah. Understood, and MSU has to build that up. 40 years can't be created in 3 years. But steps 1, 2, and 3 have occurred. Tom Izzo didn't create a program in year 3. He to this day, says he needs longevity... but he is doing it. MSU has a coach that can put a solid base in line to do this. Whereas... I've been reading for the past couple years that UM was old school, wasn't going to be able to succeed, and they needed to get rid of the ways of Bo. Many of the UM faithful shunned the power game for a new system. Now that MSU is taking the first steps... UM is embracing the history that only recently they turned their backs on.

groland

Mon, Oct 11, 2010 : 11:03 a.m.

Reading these posts, I am struck be how fan loyalty is a lot like politics. No matter what the evidence, loyal fans continue to believe in things that they hope to be true but alas are just in their imagination. The truth is that Michigan pass defense was ranked DEAD LAST out of 120 teams going into the MSU game. Thats right folks, dead last even after 4/5 teams played up to then were not even in the same league. How will this defense stop even an average passing team? The offense is entirely one dimensional. I said it before, once teams key in on DR he will not be able to throw under pressure and he will get injured from too many hits. I hope Michigan can turn around, but the evidence is just not there.

saginaw

Mon, Oct 11, 2010 : 10:30 a.m.

As I have noted before, there is no need for this rivalry to be so bitter -- hatred should have no place in University of Michigan sports. Why can't we all just get along? We should have an intense, but respectful rivalry. I look at respectful rivalries and they are everywhere in college sports: Notre Dame vs Navy, Oregon vs Oregon State. I am not into this hatred thing at all!

GoBucks

Mon, Oct 11, 2010 : 7:49 a.m.

Watched the UM-MS game to see if DR would live up to the hype when faced by a solid Big Ten defense. Both RR and DR seemed to be rattled throughout the game and this led to their mistakes. Iowa will put the final nail in DR's coffin. Big Ten will be a tough conference next year, and RR needs to realize that he is not at WV anymore, and his spread offense may not work against top tier conference teams. Too bad OSU doesn't play MS this year. GO BUCKS!

wvtroll

Mon, Oct 11, 2010 : 7:41 a.m.

For all the respect that I had for Michigan's past and glory, I now have to rethink all of what I held in awe. Michigan really didn't win any of those games of the past. It was their opponents that lost those games and beat themselves. Such a sad day for football historians. Give credit where credit is due. RR will prove himself, one way or another, to be what he really is. You may decide for yourself what that might be, but I've seen it all before.

sports nut

Mon, Oct 11, 2010 : 5:46 a.m.

Michigan St. took it to U of M when they seen a weakness THE DEFENSE!!! Then again you just can't blame ALL the "D" this weekend. It was dropped passes that hurt U of M too. Big players make BIG plays and you just can't count on Shoe Laces to pull you thru every Saturday, he needs help. Yes he made some bad passes behind his WR but they dropped more passes than he threw bad ones. I still luv ya BLUE but lets get back on track.

XTR

Mon, Oct 11, 2010 : 2:49 a.m.

Michigan State was the better team last Saturday. But we don't know if they will take the responsibility of what Michigan did nationally in the Bo Mo Lloyd years. This year's UM team is not good defensively and offensively. It only took a tough defense to take away Robinson's running game and then he threw interceptions just like last year. RR did not have any adjustment in the second half. Tate Forcier's passing game is needed when big defenses prevents Denard from running the ball. RR has now lost 3 times to MSU and 2 times to OSU without showing signs of improvement on defense.

misawa

Mon, Oct 11, 2010 : 1:26 a.m.

We've got big and little brothers waiting for you in Columbus. You know, the Boren brothers. See you in November. Hire a Michigan Man. We've got an Ohio Man that understands this rivalry.

lawrencelaundry

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 11:26 p.m.

The only reason michigan is down folks because we have a stubborn coach that has to do things his way and soon may be replaced with a real coach in Jim Harbaugh. So sparty nation you may have won a few battles, but not the war. And if Jim H comes to ann arbor then your bragging rights will be halted for the next 50 years.

Yelmonian

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 11:01 p.m.

Thosewhostay! There you are! UM lost...MSU DIDN BEAT THEM,EH? So MSU didn't make the tackles or catch the interceptions... or keep running when the hapless UM defense hugged instead of tackled? Did UM score 34 points for MSU? Why hasn't RR the brilliant coach that he is, teach UM how to tackle? Of all games...DR picked the state game to have an off day... nothing to do with MSU? I pointed out to you all last week that MSU has a more balanced team. I pointed out that UM has a terrible defense and bad special teams and coaching... and because of that MSU would win. But here you are... still unwilling to believe MSU won the game. Nope... UM lost according to you. You know what happened... and what happened is MSU WON by being the better team... and it will continue happening as long as RR is UMs coach!

MetricSU

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 10:48 p.m.

ThoseWhoStay: Why don't you move to a parallel universe where the game was actually won by UM. In this universe, it was won by MSU. Read your comment again. Now imagine the comments some MSU fans made during the John L. Smith era when MSU lost to Michigan. You'll find they're pretty much the same. And in classless fashion you comment on the intelligence of MSU fans. Boy, are some of you running scared. Engineer: If you beat MSU in basketball 5 out of the next 6, you will be able to say the tide has turned. That's roughly equivalent to three wins in football. But if it makes you feel better to hold onto the past, by all means do it. The rest of the country now understands that UM is, at best, an average program.

ThoseWhoStayUofM

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 10:41 p.m.

I understand that MSU fans are chest thumping because they aren't intelligent. The thing is, Michigan beat themselves. It's so obvious. For all three of those picks, Denard Robinson made terrible reads. The MSU defense for every pick was ALWAYS out of position and Michigan failed to take advantage of it. It's called having a true sophomore in his 6th career start. What I'm saying is, MSU can pat itself on the back for getting the W but beyond that, Michigan really beat itself offensively and defensively. The play calling from Michigan was perfect (except the decision to punt) so it really just comes down to poor linebacker execution and inexperience accross the board. No excuses for Michigan's linebackers though. They just didn't play well at all.

trigg7

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 10:29 p.m.

BLA BLA BLA, Pride comes before the fall. Thanks Mike for the heads up!

mmsufish

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 10:23 p.m.

heartbreakM........we must have been watching different games. Cam Gordon didn't "whif"...he got run over 2 if not 3 times!! State was the tougher team Saturday....period!!!!

javajolt1

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 10:04 p.m.

"...Spartans feeling the tide turn in their direction in bitter rivalry with Michigan" Lately every team has seen the tide turn in their direction against Michigan.

Jaxon5

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 9:47 p.m.

The title for the article is right on - Tide Has Turned. If only...Martin had called Harbaugh. If only...they hadn't fired all of the coaches. If only...RR hadn't thrown out the M playbook. If only...RR hadn't forced his system on a Carr team in 2008. If only...Defense was a priority and not ranked #120 in FBS. If only...M hadn't lost 14 Big 10 games in 3 years. If only...M hadn't lost every single one of its rivalry games. If only...M had a football program that wasn't a Big 10 pushover.

lawrencelaundry

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 9:38 p.m.

heartbreakM

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 9:35 p.m.

I really think the old "if only DR had not thrown INTs", "we only lost to Iowa by 2", "if only...if only" is ridiculous. The fact is, if Cam Gordon had not whiffed on a few tackles, if Mouton and Ezeh had shed a block, if Sparty lineman had not chopblocked Martin--all of those things would have changed the game, too. Games are played, and mistakes happen, but it is foolish to play 'what if'. The better teams generally win, and if the teams don't like that, then don't make stupid mistakes. And the fans should not whine about it, and accept the results.

Engineer

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 9:33 p.m.

Sparty to put it in terms you can understand if your BB team is up on us by over 30 points and we score 3 stright are we all that and suddenly the superior program? No. Same here you are down over 30 games. When you begin to pull even then you can pump your chest.

libertyordeath

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 9 p.m.

The problem with some (arguably most) Michigan fans is the arrogance they continue to exude despite evidence of consistent mediocracy. (Arrogance during times of dominance is equally boorish.) No game on the Big Ten schedule is ever a guaranteed win (though some used to be), especially the rest of the way for UM as some have implied. Purdue, Illinois, and Penn State are the upcoming teams that UM has the beat chance to beat. As evidenced last year and this year, UM can barely beat perennial doormat Indiana, so nothing is a given. UM might beat Iowa, Wisconsin, and OSU but what makes them similar to MSU is their solid defensive play. (Even Illinois has shown signs of solid defense in their last few games). All of these games will be no easy task for UM. The tide has turned, face the facts folks. UM is no longer contending for Big Ten titles, National Championships, or even beating MSU let alone OSU. It isn't all about what MSU is doing, it is as much about what UM isn't doing. MSU doesn't have to do what UM has done to show the tide has turned. Clearly MSU doesn't have the history, the reputation, or the mystique, but Michigan didn't build that over three years either. Though this is not to say that the tide can't be turned around over the next three years (though I am doubtful with Rodriguez at the helm and possible NCAA sanctions in the future). Hopefully the arrogance goes out with the tide.

rico2458

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 8:36 p.m.

just think drob would had completed the 2 interception and the bad pass to the inzone we be looking at a better game

CMSMW

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 8:34 p.m.

Okay, okay -- No more chest-thumping. MSU won in virtually all phases of the game. It has nothing to do personally with anyone here, so stop trying to defend your manhood. I don't know about anyone else here, but I have a job to go to tomorrow morning, bills to pay, a family to take care of, and other things that matter in the end. Football is fun, which is why I'm sitting here reading about it, but seriously. Let's all just get a life.

MetricSU

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 8:24 p.m.

If one squinted during the game, one could be forgiven for thinking the teams were reversed. MSU looked like UM teams of old, while UM's team looked like what could easily have been a John L. Smith team. Enjoy your time trying to win with gimmicks. It's a sign of desperation.

MetricSU

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 8:22 p.m.

michboy: MSU will lose just because you say so? Remember, MSU will lose to Michigan because that's what MSU does, right? MSU will never beat UM three years in a row because that's not what MSU does, right? You and lots of other UM fans are more worried than you've ever been. Dominance by MSU in football and men's basketball. UM has a slight edge in hockey. Too bad few people in the Midwest, and almost no one outside the Midwest and Northeast, gives a hoot.

Sparty7

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 8:21 p.m.

Defense, I made a typo.

braggslaw

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 8:20 p.m.

MSU won because they were better physically and mentally. Contrast the linebackers, qb's, and db's. The MSU linebackers maintained gap discipline to shut down DR. The UM linebackers were blocked out numerous plays due to a lack of strength and discipline. UM safety Gordon took bad pursuit angles and did not wrap on his tackles. MSU's Hyde and Robinson put on a tackling clinic. DR threw three interceptions. Cousins... Zero. There is an enormous gap in talent and coaching on the teams. It is almost like MSU and UM switched identities in the last four years.

Sparty7

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 8:18 p.m.

MSU was the better team in every way. Their denfense has been great, 3 picks and they basicly smacked DR in the face. I hope RR stays in AA for a long time. Its been great seeing the UofM fans cry about how they use to be great and how they are better than the teams they played even when they lost. News update UofM sucks and they will for another 3 years. They will lose to Iowa and State will beat Ill. End of story case closed!

Papabear151

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 8:16 p.m.

When they are serious B10 and NC Contenders quite regularly for a 10 year period AND when Michigan is not in this picture also... ONLY THEN... will the tide be turned. Michigan will be back in the picture, MSU will not be B10 and NC contenders that much, don't blow a few wins against a down team out of proportion. MSU: Happy to beat Big Brother UM: Happy with Championships Do you see where you guys have to get to?

1989NCAACHAMPS

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 7:38 p.m.

Congrats to MSU! They did not make any mistakes and got the road win. For MSU fans sake, I hope your team is focused and can get emotionally up for the game next week at home vs a confident Illinois team. Its going to be an exciting and unpredictable season in the Big Ten & College Football. Season is a long way from being over! Go Blue!

2sweetblue

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 7:35 p.m.

JR Hhahahahahahaha right you all be saying that every year. Thanks for the laugh. Toughness wins Big Ten championships not speed.........

michboy40

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 7:32 p.m.

Michigan State will lose their next game, it's just what they do.

JR Webber

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 7:22 p.m.

Enjoy your 3 wins now MSU fans but look out for next year when just about all are starters come back and start looking at winning the BigTen and were out of our hole. GO BLUE!!

mun

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 7:13 p.m.

Not having Ohio State on the schedule this year doesn't hurt MSU.

concernedinsaline

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 7:10 p.m.

Orlando & Kubrick, thanks for keeping us Sparty's honest. We do not define ourselves on our record vs. the big bros. While you worry incessantly about what we are doing, we are building a program of success. I for one am excited about this year and the future. Go back and read all of the blogs from angry big bros last night about your historic program. You may want to focus on your own program rather than belittle mine. Just wait til the NCAA comes out with their sanctions. The only Blue in AA will be your immediate future. We took care of business yesterday and now move on to the next game. I think I will clear my schedule for a potential bowl game in 2011, how about you all?

Kubrick66

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 6:51 p.m.

Jaxon5... Every traditional football power has fallen on hard times over the past forty years. Michigan was the last to fall... But just as USC, Texas, Alabama, Oklahoma, Nebraska, OSU, PSU - the list goes on and on - Michigan will rise again. They have too much tradition, too much fan support and infrastructure not to. Go Blue!

orlandomichfan

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 6:39 p.m.

@kubrick very well said post..completely agree with what you said in response to concernedinsaline.. all state fans can really do is brag about how they have beaten us the last 3 yrs, but as you stated, what else have they done..they are satisfied now i guess..keep em honest bro

3 And Out

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 6:32 p.m.

Yawn...just another game for Rich Rodriguez...just like Pitt and South Florida were... yawn.

Jaxon5

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 6:23 p.m.

In response to K66's post, that proves how far Michigan has fallen. Michigan has been dominated by a team that has been in the top 25 only once in the last 10 years. (By the way, that was a Dantonio year). I am a Michigan fan, but disgusted. There is no distinction in mediocrity.

Sean T.

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 6:23 p.m.

That's William Gholston flanking Stipek. Dell and Gholston both share the same number. I really wish Gholston chose us over state.

Kubrick66

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 6:12 p.m.

concernedinsaline... You're missing the point. This isn't about Michigan. This isn't about what Michigan has or has not accomplished... this is about MSU. You no longer want to be thought of as little brother than do something other than beat Michigan. The last Big Ten Championship MSU won was 1990 and they shared it with three other teams. Last Rose Bowl appearance was 1987. MSU has only two 10 win seasons ever. The last one coming in 1999. MSU hasn't won a bowl game since 2001. MSU has only finished the season in the AP top 25 once in the last ten years and that was 24th in 2008. And, they have only been in the final poll 7 times in the last 40 years. No, this has nothing to do with Michigan... It's all on MSU. You want to judge the success of the MSU program based on whether or not you beat Michigan... That's fine with me. But you'll never be a big brother under those standards. Like I said, it takes consistency, championships, top twenty, top ten, top five finishes... BCS boll appearances... So you let me know when that happens... But I imagine, like most State fans-- that is just a pipe dream so instead you'll cling to your wins over Michigan as your football programs barometer for success.

CamaroDan

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 6:10 p.m.

mcflies You claim MSU might, MIGHT, do something (draft class...), we have done it TRHEE times in the last decade. When you DO it, the tide will change.

mcflies

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 6:03 p.m.

@CamaroDan. How is anything you just wrote evidence the tide has not turned? MSU is doing something that UM used to do to them. That is exactly what it means to say the tide has turned. Is it a permanent change? Nobody is saying that, or at least I'm not.

CamaroDan

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 5:50 p.m.

mcflies Lets not get carried away with things. Just in case you forgot, UM just had THREE draft classes not lose to a minor rival (MSU) and vise versa. So, if MAYBE one class of yours doing it is a big deal, its been-there-done-that-more-than-you old news for us. Just another reminder that the tide has not turned. Go Blue!

concernedinsaline

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 5:44 p.m.

Big bros at the big House. Before the game, all I heard was how Denard was going to make us look silly. How your recruiting success for the last 6 years was superior (why did RR pronounce that Carr left his cupboard bare?). Denard can score from anywhere, any time (so 3 scores down with over 6 minutes to play, you punt?). That pretty much emptied the stands (must have been a sale on UM garb at Walmart). MSU, under Dantonio's leadership, has built a winning program. We hope the pizza man gives RR another 5 years, it really helps with recruits. And Kubrick, keep quoting historical statistics. Living in the past will make you all feel better I guess. And speaking of being up to the task, good luck with Iowa. At least the Purdue game should put you in the Little Ceasars Bowl in Detroit, how ironic.

hieyeq

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 5:39 p.m.

This season is starting to smell like 2009 for the wolverines...I've said it in the past, and I'll say it again, big fast guys beat little fast guys in football more times than not. The wolverines are heading in the wrong direction as a program, and the proof will be in the pudding. Let's all stay tuned and see if they can get the elusive two more victories they need to be above average.

concernedinsaline

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 5:30 p.m.

mcflies

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 5:29 p.m.

MSU is one more victory in the series away from having an entire draft class go their college careers without ever losing to their rival, and vice versa for UM. That is kind of a big deal. How many draft classes for UM will never have beaten OSU?

Kubrick66

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 5 p.m.

If little brother truly wants to grow up it's going to take a lot more than just beating Michigan... It will take Big Ten Championships, BCS bowl appearances and consistent top twenty finishes. Are they up to the task?

heartbreakM

Sun, Oct 10, 2010 : 4:59 p.m.

My hats off to the Spartans. They deserved this win. I am not so sure the 'tide has turned' so much as the tide is becoming even. They defended well, they ran well, they blocked really well, they tackled really well. When a team does that, they win (regardless of the offense type). But tides turning is a longer term thing, and we will see if this can be sustained.