I didn't see this discussed yet, but a slight mention by Brian regarding this weekend's half-time show by the MMB got me thinking.  As you may recall if you were in attendance, and not stuck in a line waiting for some stadium grub or a restroom, the MMB performed a pretty creative and funny show during the break of the NW game.  I found the content relavent since we have debated several times on this blog about the necessity of some to continue to refer to MSU as "little brother".  For all of the humor and back-and-fotrth that the matra has created over the past 5 years, it seems there are enough who wish it would just go away.  The balance of power has been restored after this years win, and there is no logical evidence that suggests that Sparty will have another 4 game run like they enjoyed since Mike Hart graduated.

With all of that being said, it is fair to think that perhaps the moniker will not die.  When the MMB uses it as a half-time feature to denigrate the school that's located "North until you smell it, West until you step in it", you know that it's use and understanding has escaped the control of the former players, current coaches, and casual fans of the rivalry.  Evidenced by the laughing and obvious applause that the comments received by the crowd in attendance on Saturday, I think that, for better or for worse, it is now permanently part of the Michigan Football Lexicon.  So, like Spartan Bob so famously started nearly a decade ago... let the debates begin.

 

Noticed from watching the game on TV yesterday that "Temptation" seems to have a new, two-note tag ending. Any reason for this? Is it an attempt to squelch the "you suck" chant?

Your morning coffee brought to you by PNC Bank, Alro Steel and Absopure.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IzKxFXFfQfY

The band:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vDhCqmqU5z0

Inside Michigan Football radio show:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5rZT5ihzgFI

One of the best (for me the best) moments of a Michigan Football Saturday is the entrance of the band and the M Fanfare.

There's something about the M Fanfare that always blows me back - the moment of silence prior to it, the sudden blast of the brass, and the rise into the Victors always brings tears to my eyes.  I thought one of the cooler sights towards the end of my run as a student was seeing the student section hold up a single fist throughout the entirity of the Fanfare and simultaneously as the drum major completes his back bend the crowd begins to clap together "CLAP.... CLAP... CLAP CLAP CLAP CLAP".

So, my question is: Why is the alumni and the rest of the stadium so slow to accept what would be an awesome sight.  A unified fan base, raising a "HAIL" fist.  Come on blue hairs, even you can get behind this!

In case nobody cares, my question to you: What's your favority Michigan tradition (other than winning).

Skip to 4:00 for the Fan fare. The whole thing is worth watching: The walk-up to stadium and probably the coolest and lowest flyover ever.

The tragic story from Monday about the Michigan Marching Band Trumpet player who was killed in a car accident was a forum topic earlier this week.  Several people had said they'd like to know when more details were available.

The information below is from the weekly MMB e-newsletter in the section written by Scott Boerma, the Band Director:

 

The students and staff of the Michigan Marching Band are deeply saddened by the loss of Patrick Fleming, a 2nd-year member of our trumpet section.  He was involved in a fatal car accident on his way to classes on Monday morning.  Patrick had an infectious smile at all times and was a devoted member of our MMB family.  His dedication to living life fully was inspiring, and he had a positive impact on all of us. 

We have received a huge outpouring of calls, emails, and Facebook messages from parents, family members, friends, and colleagues throughout the country, offering their thoughts and condolences.  The student president of the Michigan State University Spartan Marching Band called me this morning to tell me that a group of SMB students would like to visit one of our rehearsals this week to offer their support.  It's great to know that we have so many thoughtful and caring friends out there. 

The following arrangements have been made: 
Monday, October 3, from 4:00-7:00pm
Visitation will take place at C&H Funeral Home - Ypsilanti 
    411 South Adams Street
    Ypsilanti, MI  48197-5405
    (734) 482-9889

Tuesday, October 4, at 11:00am 
The funeral will be held at The New Hope Baptist Church - Ann Arbor
    218 Chapin Street
    Ann Arbor, MI  48103-3390
    (734) 994-4620

The Michigan Marching Band's performances this Saturday in Michigan Stadium will be dedicated to Patrick, and his position in the marching drill will remain unfilled that day.  The band members will wear special armbands and trumpet pins in his memory.  

Thank you for your thoughts and prayers.
Professor Scott Boerma 

 

A MMB trumpet player was killed in a car accident tonight.  It's always very sobering to hear about a tragedy like this.Thoughts and condolences go out to anyone affected. Rest in peace, my friend. 

More information will be posted as it becomes available.

stephenjnesbitt Stephen J. Nesbitt 

 

Directors John T. Maddon and Kevin Sedatole from MSU marching band have confirmed the fatal crash. Please keep the MMB in your prayers.

 

stephenjnesbitt Stephen J. Nesbitt

 

Drum major from MSU, terrific friend of mine, told me a trumpet player in the MMB passed away today, was told a car crash. If so, prayers..