Our Relationship with Michigan Football

Submitted by Zone Left on

I'm at the tail end of a great week.  My wife is pregnant with our first child and I'm on vacation visiting business schools.  Obviously, Michigan's Ross is my first choice.  It's a great school, the new building is fantastic (check it out if you haven't been), and its got a unique program that matches perfectly with my desired career path.  I just hit "send" on the application and feel great about my chances.

Unfortunately, that's the problem.  Despite every piece of positive news, I've got a very specific, overwhelming concern--will Obi Ezeh and Jonas Mouton be serviceable Big 10 linebacker this season?  Add to that concerns about running backs, Mike Martin going pro after the season, and the shocking lack of depth in the secondary, and I'm legitimately worried.  I spend my days concocting reasons why UMass's success shouldn't be a concern and why our defense can succeed in the Big 10.  

Let's add another layer.  I don't know a person dedicated or knowledgeable enough with which to watch a game.  Everyone knows Denard Robinson is awesome at this point, but how many can appreciate Omameh destroying Te'o on the long touchdown against Notre Dame?  This isn't an insult to others, but an indictment of my personality.

Brian had the long-standing email asking why he was a fan and why football was important.  I'm starting to ask myself the same question.  Last Saturday, I sat in my house screaming at the TV while the defense struggled.  As my wife aptly points out, I don't take the same joy in watching the offense perform in a way I may never see again as a Michigan fan.  

I always wanted someone like Donovan McNabb to wear the Maize and Blue.  Now that a better player with better coaching (I really believe this) is running around making defenses look stupid, I take little joy in their successes.  I almost broke my laptop when Rudolph scored his touchdown.  When Michigan took the lead and eventually sealed the victory on Crist's throw out of the end zone, I was mildly satisfied.  

My question to you, the fan, follows: why is football important to you?  Why do you love Michigan football to the point of losing your temper, screaming at the TV, and investing your emotional happiness in 20-somethings you'll likely never meet?  

I can't answer my question right now.  I love Michigan football simply because I love Michigan football.  "Why" is completely absent from the equation.  I've got a love of my home state that somehow overrides enormous parts of my logical person and manifests itself in an intense desire to see the Wolverine's football team succeed.  Is it guilt at leaving while the state struggles? Why do I care?  Why do you?  I think this exercise may help those of us that are struggling as the program completes (hopefully) its growing pains and become the ninja football machine we hope for late at night.

Comments

Lordfoul

September 22nd, 2010 at 10:32 PM ^

I love Michigan football because it brings out more passion in me than almost anything else in my life.  After my family and select close friends, nothing brings the emotion out like Saturdays in the fall.

Of course these emotions can be both good and bad, and after hearing Michigan was down 10-7 with 4 minutes to go in the first half Saturday, I was unbearable to be around.  I headed to the bar to catch the second half and was dumbfounded when I saw the halftime score.  It didn't seem possible that 3 touchdowns could be scored in such a short period of time.

Of course I had to call my sister, a fellow rabid fan among many in my family, to find out what happened.  So I guess that is another reason I love Michigan football, the rallying cries from my family and friends as we call each other during the game are really awesome. 

inshallah

September 24th, 2010 at 6:37 AM ^

My story is quite different. Born in India and brought up in Dubai. Never even watched a game of football let alone know the rules. I was faced with choices on where to go to university. Michigan it was for their fine engineering school. I had read up a little bit on football before turning up. Was in a bookshop before getting to A2 and saw a magazine with Mike Hart on the front talking about our NC hopes. Was extremely excited after reading that. Turned up in welcome week and was living the life of a fresher. Woke up Saturday morning and had a bit of the pregame festivities and walked down state street with my roomate. Asked him for his prediction and he genuinely said we may put up a 100 points. Then the HORROR happened. I still loves every bit of the game, the atmosphere and everything. Post game we went to the brown jug to grab some food and every tv had espn on showing the blocked FG. And everytime my friends saw it I saw that expression in their face. One guy said he felt like playing Russian roulette with a fully loaded gun. Another said he wouldn't mind if a truck hit him as we were crossing washtenaw. You all know how the rest of the season went. My love for football and Michigan football only grew.
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<br>Then there's my story with the capital one bowl. I was in Dubai airport on my way back to Michigan. The game was in the 3rd quarter and tight. I was literally forced to put my laptop away and board the flight. 12 hours later when we landed in Detroit I asked the 1st person i saw what happened. When he said Michigan won I was overjoyed. Could not believe it. When I watched the highlights and saw the way we won I was even happier.
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<br>I remember being in the basement of the ugli when the RRod hire was announced. There was that feeling in the atmosphere between me and my fellow students that words cannot describe.
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<br>I got back home to Dubai that summer and things weren't too well. I wasn't doing that great academically, wasn't enjoying my classes with 3 or 400 other students. I spoke with my dad and we thought it would be a good idea to apply to some universities in the UK. I had studied in a British environment my whole life so I thought it would be a lot better suited to me. One thing lead to another and I got a partial scholarship to study at Loughborough University. One of the premier sporting universities in the world. Also legal drinking... WIN! During my first week here in Loughborough I was walking around with some friends at an activities bazaar. I noticed there was an American football team. Spoke to one of the guys and he mentioned that no one really played football before they joined the team. Most people were ex-rugby players or just wanted to try something new. He said i had a headstart as i knew the rules! Thought I'd give it a shot and had a great time playing with them. My first year we lost in the semis and the last year we lost in the national championship game. While you may think it's odd... There is quite a large American football community here in the UK. Over the last year I've also got my academics on track and am currently on an internship with rolls-royce and am likely to be offered a contract for full time employment when I finish... Still with a year and a half of university left. Anyway wandering off here
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<br>Last few weeks I've been over to a teamates house to watch the games. While they've been watching the tv game, Alabama Georgia last week. I've been sitting in the corner with my laptop trying to stream the Michigan game. The roller coaster of emotions I go they they just cannot understand. Why do I care so much? I was only there for 8 months. Words cannot describe this phenomenon. It's because I know bleed maize & blue

jrt336

September 22nd, 2010 at 10:39 PM ^

I do't think Martin will go pro. He absolutely loves the program and seems like the kind of guy who would stick around. I don't think he's high on a lot of draft boards (yet) anyway, but I guess there are still 9-10 games left this year.

UNCWolverine

September 22nd, 2010 at 10:44 PM ^

In my kindergarten picture I am wearing a Michigan t-shirt and missing teeth when I smiled. My uncle that played baseball at Michigan passed away at age 24 from cancer when I was 7. At my first Michigan game when I was 9 my parents had no connections and not a lot of money so we had "bad" seats, row B endzone corner in the old stadium configuration I beliveve. Jim Harbaugh ran up the sideline for a TD and I ran down and slapped him on the helmet in excitement as he ran into the corner. Those turned out to be pretty good seats afterall.
 
I was the only child in my generation that had a chance at following in my uncle's footsteps and attend Michigan so that was always my absolute goal. So to be perfectly honest I had no choice in the matter than to be a Michigan fan and attend Michigan. 
 
I now live 2,000 miles from Ann Arbor and still pay $1,000 for season tickets every year that I really cannot afford. The only two bar "skirmishes" that I've been in as an adult involved the Michigan/Ball State football game and the Michigan/Boston College Frozen Four game.
 
I've since earned a graduate degree from UNC-Chapel Hill and live in Los Angeles. I find myself at times wondering why I didn't apply to UNC or UCLA or UTexas, etc. But at the end of the day I would have never gone anywhere else for undergrad.
 
That's my story. Congrats on your first child.
 
Go Blue.

bouje

September 22nd, 2010 at 10:50 PM ^

I've really tried to be more zen like in my approach. I've tried to just go with the flow and enjoy the games.
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<br>I love going back and seeing my friends, going to the Heidelberg and getting a boot, tailgating before the game, losing my lungs screaming so much that I can hardly breathe and that sweet sweet relief of the final second ticking off of a game won.
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<br>There's nothing better than football Saturdays and we complain all year long until it's here and then when it gets here we complain some more. Enjoy it because it's the best 3 months of the year.
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clarkiefromcanada

September 22nd, 2010 at 11:04 PM ^

Hmmmmm...

In a world almost devoid of consistency Michigan football (despite some setbacks) brings so much value to my life. Whether it's the pleasure of hearing my little girl sing "The Victors" at her first game or the walk to the stadium the traditions bring some sense of stability in this crazy world.

Why do you come to the MGoBlog every day? The members bring some representation of this consistency and tradition.

Blue-Chip

September 22nd, 2010 at 11:08 PM ^

There is a connection from sitting on the couch next to my dad and brother watching Michigan.

There are a lot of mundane things I do as an adult now, and somehow no matter how boring life is, when Michigan comes on TV, I'm that little kid next to my dad and brother again. 

I make no attempt to explain it logically.  It's just something that was built into my head.  It doesn't matter why.  The feeling I get from an exciting win is very unique and it won't change whether or not I know the cause of it.  Don't over think it.  Just enjoy the experience.

Trader Jack

September 22nd, 2010 at 11:08 PM ^

My grandfather is the biggest Michigan fan I've ever met. I can't remember the last time I saw him NOT completely decked out in Michigan gear, every single day of the week. Loving Michigan football is something that was passed down from him to me and it's pretty much just part of my family's culture now. I remember the Rose Bowl win over Washington State in 1997 being the happiest day of my life. I remember throwing everything within my reach when Spartan Bob gave Michigan State the extra second they needed to beat us. I remember being frustrated to the point of tears after The Horror. I remember Braylon coming to the rescue in 2004. I remember how difficult the last two years have been. And I think I'm going to look back in about ten years and remember when a talented quarterback from Deerfield Beach named Denard saved our program.



I'm a Michigan fan because, honestly, I don't know any other way. And that's how it'll be until the day I die.



Congratulations on your first child. Go blue.

willywill9

September 22nd, 2010 at 11:12 PM ^

It's amazing how my fandom has evolved.  I say this pretty often here (perhaps more than I should) but I grew up an ND fan (family's fault.)  When I visited Michigan though, something about it was different than anything I'd had experienced.  I went to an all boys jesuit hs in nyc, so when I visited Ann Arbor, something about it just seemed to fit for me.  It was not in NYC, it was not all boys, and it was not Jesuit.  In fact, rarely did people from my HS go to Michigan. (Two in four years.) 

In my first year, I knew no one, except the people I met at orientation. The summer before my freshman year (2002), I asked my dad whether or not to purchase season tickets for football.  He looked at me as if I had asked the most stupid question imaginable (which, looking back, it obviously was.)  I went and purchased season tickets (by myself.)  Game 1, I had no tailgate, no friends to sit next to, etc.  A few minutes later, the person who had a seat next to me happened to be my roommate during orientation. 

I'd never gone to the big house (ever) and so from the outside, I laughed at how the Big House didn't seem so big.  When I walked through the gates and reached my section (Section 31, row 13) and I took my first look down at the stadium, I was mesmerized.  The band, the uniforms/helmets, it was all just so unique to anything I'd experienced. 

Of course, that was the Washington game (what a perfect first game!)  Chris Perry scoring a TD on the 2nd play of the season.  Brabbs winning the game for us (on an emotional see-saw of a day.)  I'm rambling, but the point is... I don't know why I love Michigan football.  The passion snuck up on me out of the blue, in the same light that the University itself did.  I was a die hard mets fan going into college, and now I can sincerely say Michigan football surpasses Mets baseball.    Ramble over!

Wendyk5

September 22nd, 2010 at 11:14 PM ^

My super fandom really didn't emerge until the past couple of years. I was a huge fan in my college years, went to every game, went to Columbus for that game (which I will never do again), went to the Rose Bowl my senior year, then went sporadically over the years since I live in Chicago. 

But now, it's sort of crazy. I can't wait for Saturday. I know about the players, and I've become more of a student of football and the program. I'm fascinated with the competitive aspects of the game (and only Michigan's game) and the psychology of winning. I never realized football was such a skill sport. 

Whoever said Michigan football elicits an incredible amount of passion gets my experience. I couldn't watch any of the offensive drives in the Connecticut game because I was terrified of seeing failure, so I had my son sit next to me, and he kept saying, "No, it's good! They got a first down!" or "Denard just ran for 13 yards!" 

It's just plain fun to get so excited, to feel the gamut of emotions, the roller coaster, the drama, the feel of pride (and relief) when they win, and to do it with 100,000 other people. It's as simple as that. 

Keeeeurt

September 22nd, 2010 at 11:44 PM ^

I am the fourth person in my family to attend Michigan.  My oldest brother started his freshman year here when I was 5, I'm currently a sophomore, and both of my parents grew up in Ohio.  My dad actually got his bachelors and masters degree from OSU.  I grew up rooting for both Michigan and OSU.  I know this doesn't sound like it could possibly be true, a "fan" of both U of M and OSU but there I was.  I rooted for both because that is what I was taught.  I always rooted for Michigan when it came to the game though.  

As I grew older, I understood the rivalry more and more and my allegiance slowly drifted towards the light side.  I had attended games sporadically throughout my youth but it wasn't until last year that I became the rapid fan that I am.  I had never attended a "big" game and only attended one big ten game before last year.  I checked MGoBlog about once a week leading up to the season just to see what was going on.  

After the ND game last year, my fan-hood went into complete overdrive.  I enjoyed the tailgates, obviously, but the entire game atmosphere.  The feeling of student section being completely behind the team.  I hugged people that I have not seen that day when Mathews made that catch but we are always connected by that one moment just like everyone else in that stadium.  

Sorry if I rambled quite a bit and I didn't quite answer the question of why but this is as close as I can come to answering it.  Go Blue!

a2bluefan

September 22nd, 2010 at 11:51 PM ^

Why is it so important to know why you love Michigan football? Can't you just continue to love it and be content with that?  Assuming not, perhaps you might sometime ask a Michigan student or alum who doesn't give a damn about Michigan football why they don't. If you could get anything more than "I just don't" out of them, could be some interesting insight.

In any case, here's what it's about for me. I enjoy sports for one fairly simple reason that is easily summed up in the late Jim McKay's famous intro to ABC's Wide World of Sports: "... the thrill of victory... and the agony of defeat...the human drama of athletic competition."

But why Michigan football? I grew up in NC, and after attending ECU (Go Pirates!) for undergrad, I moved to Ann Arbor to go to U of M for grad school in 1986. The first time I went to a game at Michigan Stadium, the thought that overwhelmed me at the time was that I was witnessing the grandest tradition in all of college sports. It was special in a way that nothing else in the world could be. I was instantly hooked. Twenty-four years later, I still live in Ann Arbor, and my fall schedule (and trust me, I'm a BUSY guy) takes a back seat to Michigan football. In those nearly two-and-a-half decades, I've seen the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat many times. And while I've been one to be more accepting of changes over the years, I have been around long enough to understand why there are so many folks who cannot. To this day, every time the Michigan Marching Band, and then the Wolverines themselves, come through the tunnel at that first game of the season, I am instantly choked up.

Michigan football has thrilled me to the point of tears, and broken my heart more times than I can say. But in the end, I'm glad to know that I have something that I can be passionate about, something that stirs my emotions year in and year out. Why Michigan football?  Why not?

GO BLUE!

 

 

BlueintheLou

September 23rd, 2010 at 12:03 AM ^

To quote Cool Runnings, seriously, "I see pride, I see passion..." I can't imagine living a life where I am not passionate about things. While there are larger things in life to be passionate about, what's the harm in taking pride in your alma mater? Where's the problem with being passionate about a school and program you love so much? We are connected through different ways, but connected nonetheless. So, I support it, the best way I know how.

To have passion is to live. Wherever your passion lies, it is passion, and allows you to live an exciting life.

tomcat

September 23rd, 2010 at 12:13 AM ^

I wasn't suppose to be a wolverine....

My dad graduated from tOSU and I was born at tOSU University Hospital on the side facing the "shoe." (I'm told). Thankfully I moved to Michigan when I was three. My other siblings still choose the buckeyes but I was 5 when the 90's rolled around and i don't want to assume that because we won almost every year that I choose the wolverines over the buckeyes but it is likely.

But I think for most of us, we don't remember why or when we started rooting for Michigan, we just did and now it's burned inside of us.

2008 Alum

TheOracle6

September 23rd, 2010 at 12:23 AM ^

I began watching football at the age of 4.  My father was watching a Notre Dame and Michigan game and I was blown away by Michigan.  From that moment on I would always watch Michigan games whenever I could instead of being a normal child and watching cartoons.  I started playing football at the age of 6.  by the age of 14 I started to realize I wasn't your average football player.  I transferred schools at my Fathers opinion and earned a division 1 scholarship to the university of Buffalo.  After 2 years I tore my ACL and PCL and decided I would persue a career in coaching.  All my life Michigan football was a constant.  From Timmy B's 313, to the 97 Wolverines and Charles Woodson becoming the only defensive player to ever win the heisman, to the present day struggle.  I watch football from an in-depth perspective that not many are able to do. More often then not I can call the play by just seeing the formation a team is in. Football is an obsession, an occupation, a religion of sorts.  This football team means more to me then anyone knows.  I get up in the morning before film study with the players and make sure I'm checking MGoBlog and getting all of the updated information from the day before.  I make sure I update my scout and rivals accounts each year so I can get my up to date recruiting information so I can watch film on all of the players Michigan offers.  For me, Michigan football will always be this important.  I make 1-2 trips a year to A2 to see some Wolverine action up close.  The first time I walked into the Big House I shed many a tear (good thing I had sun glasses on)

I'm a big fan of this website as well.  Although I wish there weren't as many "know it all's" that have never played football in their life that neg anyone with a differing opinion then their own, but that's for another time.  What matters is we all support the University of Michigan football team and for alot of us, it's life.

StephenRKass

September 23rd, 2010 at 12:25 AM ^

Why does the sun shine?

Why is the sky blue?

Why is the Pope Catholic?

Why do I love Michigan? I just . . . do. It ebbs and flows. I'm not as much of a fan as many here. But following Blue will always be part of my life. I will always enjoy going back, even if I missed many years in the Big House from being overseas or in California or Florida. But it is part of my blood, and I love Michigan. I just do.

dearbornpeds

September 23rd, 2010 at 1:04 AM ^

I wasn't a big fan growing up; in fact, I was more impressed with that team in Columbus.  (I hate myself for having to say that.)  My passion began with my first OSU game when I was a freshman in 1971 and I saw Billy Taylor break the run that sealed the game.  I had the pleasure of meeting him last year and pointed to the spot on the field where the play occurred.  I am certain  that at least ten thousand people have reminded him of that play but he was gracious and shared his memories of that day.

I have survived the many new years day disappointments, the stinging OSU losses, Colorado, the HORROR, and 3-9 and I keep coming back for more.  In fact, I am more emotionally attached now than when I was in school.  I can't go twelve hours without checking this blog.  My emotional barometer is affected by the decisions of high school kids I will never meet.

People have asked where I might move when I retire and I tell them I have no intention of leaving the state.  I can't stand the thought of not being able to sit in the Big House and yell until I'm hoarse.

It's not just the record, the tradition, or the song.  It's knowing that I'm a very small part of something that was and will be great again-the team, the team, the team.

MFreak

September 23rd, 2010 at 1:07 AM ^

I was born and raised in the state of Michigan. In Michigan, everyone follows Michigan and Michigan State. Most of this is due to family having gone there and those being the two top big schools in the state. In my family however, nobody has attended college. The closest was when my father attended a couple years of trade school before having to drop out due to a problematic divorce with is first wife. Therefore I had no allegiance. Near the end of high school, the choice of colleges was coming up and something inside of me really wanted to go to Ann Arbor. I had never seen the city. I hardly followed collegiate sports. I have no idea where this urge came from. 

As a senior with my college career at Michigan looming ahead of me I began to watch football. I loved the tradition, the energy, everything about the game. Something about it just drew me in. Again, I have no idea where these urges come from.

Being the first in my family to have a four year degree, I have great pride in my school. That degree doesn't have the best grades attached to it, but it's a start down the right path for the future of my family. I have great traditions to pass down, intense hatreds to tell them of and great bedtime stories of the heroes of Michigan sports (whenever I have kids that is).

I feel as if I'm rambling at this point, so the bottom line is my relationship comes from an intense pride and feeling like I have done something great for myself and those around me.

Gus_possessive…

September 23rd, 2010 at 2:06 AM ^

My relationship with Michigan athletics makes Gil Renard's obsession with Bobby Rayburn and the San Francisco Giants look tame.

But cereally, I was brainwashed to be a Michigan fan from birth. I hate to admit that because having an iconic moment to memoralize the beginning of one's Michigan fandom is so much cooler. In my case, I can't remember life without Michigan sports.

3 years old: First Michigan football game. My family's had season tickets my whole life. Attended almost every home game from 7-18 years old. 

Kindergarten/1st grade: Played Elvis Grbac + Desmond Howard vs. Ohio State/Notre Dame/Michigan State on the playground. I was always Desmond and dramatically dove for every reception even if diving wasn't necessary. Michigan always won.

2nd grade: Spent day in principal's office for being verbally combative with my Michigan State fan of a teacher who teased me the Monday after MSU beat Michigan in 1993. Bitch.

3rd grade: Read "The Fab Five" after relentlessly persuading my mom to buy me the book. She said the book's language was terrible; I said her making me go to bed at halftime of the national championship game against Duke was terrible. And besides, I personally watched the Fab Five grab and shake their nuts in the face of Michigan State fans after a win at Breslin. How much naughtier could the book be?

5th grade: First time I realized that mayyybe my love of Michigan was abnormal. After the loss to Northwestern in 1995 I had an emotional breakdown that didn't relent until I ran into an acquaintance (and fellow MGoReader) who shared my letdown. Watching other people carry on with their lives after such a travesty was sickening. It was relieving to see another Michigan fan who shared my disgust, but eye-opening to realize that most people's lives were unaffected by Michigan's loss. Tshimanga Biakabutuka later alleviated the pain of the Northwester loss. 

7th grade (1997): Still sincerely the greatest year of my life.

8th grade: First year of Big Ten Basketball Tournament. First time a Michigan athletic event aired during the school day. Brought an AM/FM walkman to school and snaked the headphones through my sweatshirt sleeve to disguise them. My genius plot was foiled when I celebrated at a Tractor Traylor dunk during math class, thereby revealing my set-up. Kicked out of student council for setting a bad example.

Emarcy

September 23rd, 2010 at 2:05 AM ^

My first vivid football memory.  I was 10.  Gary Moeller's first season as head coach.  Michigan State at the Big House.  Perhaps could be considered Desmond Howard's breakout game as he had 140 yrds on 8 receptions and a 95 yrd kickoff return.  Michigan drives in the final minute and scores in the north end zone with 6 seconds on the clock.  Michigan 27 - MSU 28.  Moe calls for 2.  Grback to Desmond.  He dropped it.  

On the walk back I was questioning whether Moe should have gone for 2 when the tie was right there.  My dad said You don't play to tie, you play to win.  Which is right.

If you watch the replay there was very clearly pass interference on Desmond on the final play.  It was all the defender could do to dive at Desmond's ankle with the ball in the air, preventing the wide open catch.  Injustice!  

(5:15 on this clip:  youtube.com/watch?v=6NORCQnx4ls )

profitgoblue

September 23rd, 2010 at 9:40 AM ^

Desmond NEVER dropped a pass.  On that specific play, he was clearly tripped.  I was about 13 years old when I watched that game and I remember having to take a walk outside by myself after Desmond was tripped so I could cry in solitude.  I'll never forget that game.

goblue9683

September 23rd, 2010 at 2:18 AM ^

I remember starting to watch football when I was roughly 6 years old.  When I was finally old enough to go to games with my parents (family trips, or my dad’s business related trips), I remember being amazed at the size of the stadium when in person and how the team was always expected to win no matter the opponent.   I was usually in the company of filthy rich people.  Even if they didn’t associate with the University directly, they were usually well off and cared about Michigan Football.  There just seemed to be an unexplainable draw, and I wanted to know more.

The first few times I was in Michigan Stadium, the colors always appealed to my eye and Michigan would have a good tailback, a good quarterback, and top notch receivers.  The names that stick out in my mind are Grbac, Wheatley, Howard, and Alexander from that time.  The more I visited Ann Arbor (for football or otherwise), the more I was drawn to the city and the school.  From that point on, my brother and I knew we each had to go to Michigan.  After watching him complete his time there, I began to truly understand what the University of Michigan really offered and its passion for excellence in everything including football (and other athletics).

During my time at school, I met the woman who's now my wife, we both have Michigan degrees, and we have an equal emotional investment to the University and the football team for different reasons.  I have grown up with Michigan and many of the things that make me who I am are because of the University.  I would not trade my experiences for anything.

After I graduated, I moved out of Michigan and was really surprised by the masses of people that have admiration for, a connection to, or general feeling caused by Michigan’s reputation.  Usually, the people that hate [are gonna hate] are people who went to or are associated with MooU or tOSU or couldn’t get in.  Outside of that, there’s a genuine respect for the school as a whole as if everyone views Michigan as a premier school in the world. 

The “why I love Michigan Football” is much more than a player missing gaps and assignments, a missed field goal (or what seems like all), or an incomplete pass to end a game.  Michigan Football is extension of everything great that makes up the University.  For me, Michigan Football was best summed up before I was born with this excerpt:

“There runs through the core of all Michigan activities both on and off this campus a certain intangible thing. We call it "The Michigan Spirit".  Maybe you can relate to it.  It's the atmosphere that permeates that stadium every Saturday afternoon in the fall where over a hundred thousand fans patiently wait to see whether Bo Schembechler is going to continue his winning ways. You know what I mean! You can feel the tension, the excitement, the charisma that surrounds that stadium every Saturday afternoon.” –Bob Ufer

Michigan is bigger than I can imagine, and I keep learning that long after my time there.  When it comes down to it, a win is a win.  Be happy for all that is winning.

I am done channeling my inner Ufer.  Go Blue!

uminks

September 23rd, 2010 at 2:42 AM ^

UM was my only football favorite. The lions were still losing out all the time to the vikings. In the early 70s...UM was winning a lot of games. Their uniforms looked cool and they had a great history.  Bo looked like a general marching up and down the sidelines, somebody in total control of his team. I was a big fan well before I went to school there. Actually it was the football team that motivated me to do well in school to attend UM one day. And I did.  I will never forget those golden years of UM football during the 70s.  No matter what happens to the football team, I'll still be their number one fan. It's been tough the last couple years since I have never experienced UM losing a lot before...but I'm still behind them all and hope we can turn the football program back to where it belongs!  B10 champions!!!

mikoyan

September 23rd, 2010 at 4:05 AM ^

I think a big part of it for me is the fact that I was born and raised in Michigan.  Michigan is the best school in the state.  While I was growing up, I wanted to go to Michigan but things didn't quite happen the way I wanted and I ended up going to the school down Washtenaw with the intention of transferring after my Freshman year.    But friendships were made and I actually liked Eastern, so I stayed there.  My football fandom waned for a few years after college (I had other things to worry about...like finding a job).  Then I got my first professional job and my passion re-ignited and I've been hooked since.    For 15 years, it was easy to be a Michigan fan...they were so good.  Now it's not so easy but I don't care.....after experiencing enough games at the Big House...I'm hooked.

JeepinBen

September 23rd, 2010 at 8:40 AM ^

I was born in Chicago (as many will recall from any threads on the Bulls/Bears/Blackhawks/Cubs) but both of my parents were U of M alumni. My dad's parents also have degrees from U of M, and Michigan Football was just a constant in my house. My first trip to the Big House I was 7-9 years old, and my dad took me to Ann Arbor on the way to/from my grandparents house (Beverly Hills, Mi). I don't remember much about the trip, but I remember that it was really hard to park by the Union. We went inside and got me a jersey (#12, Scott Dreisbach) and a bunch of Shirts and stuff. Then my dad drove me down to the big house where the gates were open (I thought we were gonna get arrested). We walked in through the North Endzone gate, and started walking down the steps (i thought we were gonna get arrested, despite the fact that maybe 40 other people were in the stadium running stairs and the like). We went down onto the field, my dad jumped down and had to pick me up and put me on the field. Amazing (if i was scared) experience. I put a toe in the endzone and was ready to run from the cops, but none came. We just walked up the steps, and loved it. 

When I was applying to schools, I only applied to 6. I knew I wanted to do Mechanical Engineering and Michigan was the #2 program in the country. It made sense. I got in, and it wasn't even worth visiting the other schools. On my visit to Ann Arbor my senior year of high school I basked in the glory of late night Pancheros, a Michigan win at the big house in the student section, and knew it was where I had to be. Student Football and Hockey tickets were "Part of the tuition" according to my dad, and he still calls me after every Michigan game. A few weeks ago I got to go on an alumni big house tour (see this post http://mgoblog.com/mgoboard/pictures-weekend) and after I had done the Heisman pose in the south endzone, taken pictures on the M and everything else, I needed to call my dad. Can't say why, but I did, and we talked about that time when i was 7, and it was great. 

Alum 2009, and wouldn't change a thing about it

randyfloyd

September 23rd, 2010 at 10:07 AM ^

I remember growing up in Fairfield county, Ohio.  My childhood was full of Buckeye fans, and Buckeye trees.  My dad was, and still is a Huge OSU fan, as is most of the people here.  In case you don't know central Ohio geography, Fairfield county borders Franklin county.  Our county seat is Lancaster, home of General Willam T. Sherman, Rex Kern, Bobby Carpenter, and a giant glass factory.

When I was 4 years old my dad to me took an OSU/Michigan party.  One of my dad's good buddies was an MSU grad(thought I didn't know that til much later in life), and he rooted for the Maize and Blue.  I always thought Joe was cool and he was the only guy there rooting for the Wolverines.  Being 4, I really could care less who won at the time.  That game was going bad for OSU, and I jumped on the Michigan bandwagon (so to speak, I was 4)!  I liked the colors, and Joe was cool.  Joe and I didn't really pick on everyone too much, but my dad had no idea what was started that day.

I have been true Blue ever since.  I didn't care about school enough to get the grades needed to get into college(let alone one as prestigious as Michigan).  I did dream of playing in Michigan Stadium though, as I am sure most of you did as kids.  I would alway intercept a pass with seconds left, and score the winning touchdown for the Wolverines!

Looking Back, I wish I had studied hard, and been a Michigan grad.  I wish that I knew then, what I know now.  I have made so many mistakes, but I am finally starting to realize my potential and I'm doing OK now.  I'm not a dummy, I would consider myself more of a waste (though I'm working on that).  Through it all the one thing that never has changed is my love for the Maize and Blue!

Go Blue!

profitgoblue

September 23rd, 2010 at 10:17 AM ^

If it is possible to bleed maize and blue, I do.  My grandfather attended Michigan, my father attended Michigan, three of my cousins attended Michigan (one eventually married the son of a former athletic director), and I attended Michigan (LSA '97).  My father began taking me to games as a child and I will never forget the first time I walked through the concourse into the Big House.  The sheer enormity of the stadium, the sea of people, the thickness of anticipation in the air, and the sound of 100,000 people was life-altering.  I still get goosebumps when I walk into the stadium to this day.

We eventually moved out of state but my father made it a point to keep us "connected" by traveling to away games.  We've been to Northwestern, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan State, Ohio State, Penn State, and Boston College for games. 

After all of that history, the choice for college was a no-brainer for me.  I didn't care about what I studied, I just wanted to go to Michigan.  And the years I spent there have been the best of my life to date.  I bruised the heck out of my shins tackling friends in the stands in 1993 when Michigan beat Ohio State 28-0.  I participated in the "March on the President's House" in 1994 when Michigan beat Notre Dame in South Bend on a last-second field goal.  I watched Donovan McNabb and Kordell Stewart break my heart (the Big House was never more quiet as it was after the Hail Mary).  I watched Charles Woodson make the one-handed interception in 1997 against Michigan State in Spartan Stadium.  I was in the stands at Penn State during the "Snow Bowl of 1995" and again in 1997 when Michigan dismantled PSU.  I ran onto the field after the Ohio State victory in 1997 and I was in the stands for the Rose Bowl game that saw Michigan win the first national championship I ever knew.

In other words, I don't think I have known anything other than loving Michigan football as if it is somehow in my blood.  Maybe someone at U-M Medical School should do some genetic research to see if they can locate a gene linked to passion for college football . . .

Deep Under Cover

September 23rd, 2010 at 10:57 AM ^

I cannot imagine a life where I am not a Michigan fan.  Like many of you, I have loved Michigan my entire life.

My father played for a scholarship under Bo from 1970-1975 at the "Wolf Man" position.  My uncle walked on and played for a couple years in the early 80s, if I remember correctly.  My dad is OBSESSED with football.  He coached my in gradeschool, my brother after me, and continued to coach because of his love of the game.  He enjoys the strategy it deploys, but more importantly I think he loves the hard work and commitment to something bigger than yourself: the team.

My dad's hero is Bo, I think.  To him Bo was more than a football coach, he was a life coach.  He taught you life lessons through the game, which I think is what all coaches should strive for when working with college men.

I love Michigan football because it is part of my life as much as it was my fathers, even if I never played in Ann Arbor.  I remember wearing my little Michigan uniform when playing in the backyard (couldn't wear the helmet, that was cheating).  My mom took a picture of me in that uniform and a local sports shop had me in the center of their collage of sports pictures on the wall.  I have always enjoyed hanging out with my dad's former teammates when they come in town, and getting the opportunity to go on the field during the Alumni games (won't be able to this year...).  I remember being excited to watch what Woodson would do when he stepped onto the field, even as a youngster, and being ecstatic when he won the Heisman.  The fight song still gives me goosebumps.  I HATE Ohio State with every last fiber in my body.

Attempting to sound objective, I can say I do like Michigan for its rich tradition.  It is a fantastic university, and I really feel like they hold themselves to higher standards than most programs in the country (Detroit Free Press be damned).

I guess there is no "this is why" reason behind why I love Michigan football.  It is, always was, and always will be for me.  I live and die every Saturday with the team, because they are my team.  

EGD

September 23rd, 2010 at 11:10 AM ^

I too am amazed at the power a simple football game has over my moods and emotions.  Other than attending UM as an undergraduate and forming acquaintances with a few of the players, I really have no connection to the football program.  When I was younger, a Michigan victory would being near euphoria, while a loss would send me into a torrent of anger (and sometimes property destruction).  Over the years I have developed more self-control, thought I sometimes must resort to extensive profylactic measures to avoid the ill-effects of a loss.  I always thought I would "grow out of it," but I now know people in their 50s and 60s who still have the same issues I have; it ain't gonna happen. 

I am actually in middle of a very interesting book about this subject called "Rammer Jammer Yellow Hammer" (deals with fans devoted to Alabama football).  I'm only about 1/3 of the way through it; maybe there will be some answers by the end!

ClevelandWolverine55

September 23rd, 2010 at 11:20 AM ^

I grew up in Cleveland and I still live there to this day. I have a great family one side despises OSU and one is completely obsessed with the school. So much so my aunt has dogs named scarlet and gracie and it makes me throw up a little bit in my mouth. I have three cousins that were or are currently athletes at tOSU. My mom's side of the family would try to dress me in buckeye gear and take me to the shoe. I didnt like it at all. I didn't know who I wanted to root for but I knew I didn't like Ohio State.

It became clear in 1996 when my dad took me to Ann Arbor when I was 8 years old for the first time for the Michigan vs. Penn State game and from that point forward I knew this my school and my team. My dad never went to Michigan but always loved what the program and the University has stood for. We watched Michigan demolish top 5 Colorado and then watched Charles Woodson clutch that rose between his teeth after putting on one of the greatest performances I've ever seen in my life against the Buckeyes. I have so many memories in that stadium with my father good and bad.

It's so much more than just the team it's the band, it's the big house, it's the winged, it's bo schembechler, being the leaders and the best and having a common love with my Dad. I always tell my friends I dont root for Michigan because I hate Ohio State although I do its because I love Michigan with every fiber of my being. I can't imagaine being a fan of another college football team. I would sacrifice my fan hood of every other sport just to be a Michigan Football fan it surpasses everything in my life besides my friends, family and career.  There is just nothig like it.

GO BLUE! forever

BoMoLloRo

September 23rd, 2010 at 11:56 AM ^

I have been reading this blog for years, and this thread has finally made me join and this is my first post.  Many foregoing posts have so many unifying themes - and I agree there is an undefinable  "Michigan Spirit" that permeates.  I am the son of 2 UM grads, and the nephew of another.  My dad was in the MMB in the early 60s and took me to my first game in '75 (I was 8).  He also tutored Red Berenson when he was an undergrad and Red was just a scrappy hockey player.  We listened to Bob Ufer's pregame the way up and I was educated about all the UM traditions.  Leach, Huckleby, Simpkens, Woolfolk, Wangler, Carter were my childhood sports idols (how cool was that to "come into age" of UM football in the 70s). All those Nerf football games where the Woverines win!!  I almost went to the Slippery Rock - Shippensburg game.   I nearly had to be institutionalized when my dad left me home for an OSU game because the only extra ticket would have required me to sit with a 14 year old neighbor's kid and my over protective parents did want their 10 year old sitting without an adult (yes it was torture).  I listened to every game I did not go to on the radio - General Patton's horn! The first song we played in 5th grade band (me on trumpet) was the Victors!   I went to UM undergrad and law school.  I was there for Colo h.m. pass, MM's PSU catch, and lost my voice in a bar in Chicago in the BE 3OT MSU game.  I also remember signing the "Na-Na-Na - Goodbye" song to the UMiami team in '88 in the student section thinking UM had  sealed a victory, only to hear a silent Big House after Miami won (second only to silence of Colo game).  I have a picture on my desk of Bo squatting with his arms around 2 little boys at Camp Michigania - one being 6 year old me and the other my 4-year old brother (Shemmy, Bo's son, was climbing on his back and you can see his funny red sandals and white socks hanging behind Bo).  Whenever the PA says "Band take the Field" I tear up and have to sometimes contain myself from bawling.  Nothing else to date elicits this same emotion out of me....  It's not only the game and my love of UM FB that triggers this, but that single event is an impolding vortex of my entire life experiences to date (many of which are impacted by UM), my parents experiences all focussed on an overwhelming moment of self reflection and appreciation for everything I have.  There you have it!

BoMoLloRo

September 23rd, 2010 at 12:33 PM ^

I have been reading this blog for years, and this thread has finally made me join and this is my first post.  Many foregoing posts have so many unifying themes - and I agree there is an undefinable  "Michigan Spirit" that permeates.  I am the son of 2 UM grads, and the nephew of another.  My dad was in the MMB in the early 60s and took me to my first game in '75 (I was 8).  He also tutored Red Berenson when he was an undergrad back when Red was just a scrappy hockey player.  We listened to Bob Ufer's pregame all the way up to the games and I was educated about all the UM traditions.  Leach, Huckleby, Simpkens, Woolfolk, Wangler, Carter were my childhood sports idols (how cool was that to "come into age" of UM football in the 70s). All those Nerf football games where the Woverines win!! The Slippery Rock - Shippensburg game.   I nearly had to be institutionalized when my dad left me home for an OSU game because the only extra ticket would have required me to sit with a 14 year old neighbor's kid and my over protective parents did want their 10 year old sitting without an adult (yes it was torture and I'm still pissed about that to this day).  I listened to every game I did not go to on the radio - General Patton's horn! The first song we played in 5th grade band (me on trumpet) was the Victors!   I went to UM undergrad and law school.  I was there for Colo h.m. pass, MM's PSU catch, and lost my voice in a bar in Chicago in the BE 3OT MSU game.  I also remember signing the "Na-Na-Na - Goodbye" song to the UMiami team in '88 in the student section thinking UM had  sealed a victory, only to hear a silent Big House after Miami won 31-30 (second only to silence of Colo game).  Being at RB in 97 was unforgettable.  I have a picture in my office of Bo squatting with his arms around 2 little boys at Camp Michigania - one being 6 year old me and the other my 4-year old brother (Shemmy, Bo's son, was climbing on his back and you can see his funny red sandals and white socks hanging behind Bo - I remember thinking they were girls' shoes).  Beginning 10-15 years ago, at games, whenever the PA says "Band take the Field" and up through the conclusion of the Victors,  I tear up and have to sometimes contain myself from bawling.  Nothing else to date elicits this same emotion out of me....  I've come to realize that  single event triggers an imploding vortex of my entire life experiences to date (many of which are impacted by UM), my parents' UM experiences that contributed to my love of UM, and spits the same into a momentary overflowing cauldron of self reflection and appreciation for everything I have.  Oh, and of course, there is the football too.  There you have it!

cbuswolverine3

September 23rd, 2010 at 1:31 PM ^

No one in my family, including myself, graduated or even went to school at Michigan.  My family and I are I guess what some want to call "Wal-Mart Wolverines," even though I strongly disagree.  I grew up in central Ohio, where I still live outside the most hated city of them all, in a middle class family.  My father, God bless his cotton-picking heart, somewhere at an early age saw the light of Michigan football and never looked back.  Lucky for me, the year that I was born was also the year my family received full-season tickets to the Big House.  I have been fortunate enough to see more games in my 30 years than most get to in their lifetimes, and for that I am extemely thankful.  We sit in the south endzone...yes, the same endzone where Desmond did the the Heisman pose, where Charles Woodson returned the punt to, and where Super Mario caught the last second TD against JoePa.  From my seat in section 11 I've lived some of my highest highs and, unfortunately, some of my lowest lows.  I've jumped like crazy watching Mercury Hayes lift us over Virginia, and shook my head in disbelief as the "Rocket" returned his second kick for a TD.  I've watched my Dad tear up when the clock read 0:00 against the Buckeyes in 1997, knowing he just might get to see us(yes I know the we don't play for the team, but c'mon, we all feel like part of the program, don't we?) win a National Championsip before he dies.  I've made many a friend from traveling to road games, and enjoy every home Saturday that I get to tailgate with my family and some of my newfound Michigan brothers.  See, my "Why" isn't any better than yours, but, alumnus or not, it's just as special.  We all love and take pride in it...the university, the team, the stadium, the experience.  Here's to many more good memories, and hopefully sometime soon beating these Buckeyes that are in my backyard!

jbragg2

September 23rd, 2010 at 2:26 PM ^

Being born in Virginia and living here my whole life I am not supposed to cheer for Michigan I am supposed to like VT or UVA. My parents both born and raised in MI came here for school and ended up staying. My first memory of Michigan was in my early childhood ( I dont remember the year) I was maybe 5 or 6. We were watching Michigan VS. Notre Dame and ND took the lead. My dad proceeded to punch a hole in the wall (We went on to win the game.) From that day forward I wanted to be like my dad. The love for one team and the allegiance is something that i have held close to me since that day. The tradition the colors the winged-helmets. Those are the things that drew me in. My sophomore year of High school was my first trip to the Big House. I remember walking in and just being in awe I had never seen anything so beautiful in my life. Every since then we have driven the 11 and a half hours to AA for atleast one game.

The past few years my fandom has been extended to a whole different level. Since, my brother and know have good jobs we literally spend all of our free time and money on anything Michigan it has become an obsession and Pride in a school that I have never attended.

We have formed bonds with Michigan fans in our town and we are known through the city as "The Michigan Cult" those times and the passion that we show while watching our Beloved Michigan Football are the reasons of why I love Michigan. GO BLUE!!  

bighouseinmate

September 23rd, 2010 at 2:36 PM ^

My story doesn't begin in elementary school, or even with alumni ties like most. I grew up just west of Champaign, IL so most of the people I knew were Illini fans. Between my soph. and junior years in HS, back in 86', my little brother and I went to the UM wrestling camp with most of my HS team. I loved it, and so did my brother and my best friend at the time. We toured Crisler and the Big House, and the camp was at the indoor football practice facility. Ann Arbor itself was a great place, much better than the U of I campus. Along with my brother and my best friend, I became a Michigan fan right then and there. I later was lucky enough to receive attention for wrestling from the UM coaches, and a freak injury(elbow dislocation) kept me from placing in state and the interest from UM dropped. It didn't, however, drop my fanatical desire to see everything UM sportswise excel.

I cheered on UM's 88' BBall team in front of a houseful of U of I fans. I was elated, then crushed at the Fab Fives' victories and failures. The 97' football NC was a high point, while the 'Horror' was the lowest of lows. I followed the wrestling program with interest in the late 80's and early 90's due to people like Joey Gilbert and Sean Bormet, whom I wrestled against in HS, being on the team and doing well. I cheer when I see another sport for UM doing well also, including the hockey, baseball, and softball teams. I bleed blue, hate tOSU and MSU, and follow UM alums in their pro-careers. Living in Colts territory, I cheer on Brady with ruthlessness and chide Colt's fans for Manning's failures, especially concerning the 97' Heisman.

I enjoy everything Maize and Blue and am glad for my 22 plus years of UM fandom.

notTHATbrian

September 23rd, 2010 at 3:43 PM ^

I was in the 8th grade in 1997 and I asked a classmate if he was going to some birthday party or activity on the upcoming Saturday. He looked at me dismayed that I would even fathom doing something during the time a Michigan game was coming on. I considered myself a fan of the team up to this point but had to totally reevaluate my fandom. So I skipped the party watched every game of that season. In December I came down with a bad fever and cold. On saturday night lying under an electric blanket I watched the Heisman announcement. The moment Charles Woodson won I jumped up with more life and energy than I had in days. I was literally cured, no more sore throat fever, nothing. The exhuberance of that moment and the entire season stuck with me and I've been hooked ever since.

mnb zach

September 23rd, 2010 at 4:16 PM ^

I threw up a rather lengthy post in response to this at my blog, Dreaded Judgement.  Both this post by Zone Left and the "State of the Schwatev" post by Brian got me thinking deeply about the subject that is very close to my heart but really not thought about much.

It is a little long for a response here, or else I would just copy and past it (it is also a good chance to pimp my blog out a little bit more).  Hope everyone enjoys it.

MichFan1997

September 23rd, 2010 at 9:40 PM ^

when I was about 8. I picked them because of the helmets. I grew so passionate that by the time I went to college (CMU) Michigan was my favorite of all my teams. Still is. That's why it's BULLSHIT when someone says I cant be a Michigan fan because "I didn't go there." Yeah, I didn't go there when I was fucking 8 either. Yet you're not just going to STOP rooting for a team after a decade just because you went to another school. Rant Over.

U Fer M

September 24th, 2010 at 6:58 AM ^

in the 70's, grandparents were faculty. They had tickets, but found sitting with the faculty quite boring and reserved. Back then you could buy student tickets at the window, and go right in. Best game was sitting in the endzone in '79 when Anthony Carter scored the game winner against Indiana in the final seconds. I've never seen a crowd go so crazy. Everyone thought it was going to be a tie which equals a loss back then. People were leaving the stands, then lightning, excitement. Anthony Carter was the first big playmaker under Bo, it was great. But I guess I'm saying, I grew up Blue and still am....

6james6

September 24th, 2010 at 8:52 AM ^

After having read the entire comments list, I just cannot describe how I actually felt - almost goosebumps. My story is def. different from all, but close to @inshallah. I was born and brought up in India. I have lived most of my life in a big city with a fast paced life. I had never heard of Michigan Football before I arrived to A2 - the most I knew about football was it was similar to rugby and I mocked at the sport (football - yet hands are used more than legs).

Anyway, my first game was freshman year 06' vs IOWA - the year we went undefeated to Columbus and played THE GAME OF THE CENTURY. Since, then my interest in the sport increased exponentially. From my sophomore year onwards I have bought football tickets every year. I have seen more downs App State, The year we don't speak about, and last year. So hopefully this year that I don't have tickets we will at least go to a bowl game.

Today my knowledge of the sport, the rules and the history of Michigan Football is much much more than an average freshman born in brought up in the US and I take pride in that fact. I regularly follow blogs and try to get a stream late nights 1:30 AM on Sunday when its 3:30 PM - GAMEDAY.

Even though I am physically not present in THE BIG HOUSE - just the thought of seeing a game infuses in me so much energy. I get goosebumps every time I sing the FIGHT SONG to date. 

I think I was really lucky to have witnessed the 500th GAME AT THE BIG HOUSE. My friends in India make so much fun of me being obsessed with college fb and esp. with GO BLUE! which they find hilarious. But I don't blame them - they have not experienced what it is to be in the stadium. They have not experienced walking down state street. They have not experienced the joys of winning on Sat. nights. They have not experienced mourning a loss.

GO BLUE! FOR LIFE.

MOST IMPORTANTLY: BEAT OSU. ;)

Mercury Hayes

September 24th, 2010 at 8:54 AM ^

Grandpa had season tickets. We went to see frequent drubbings of Northwestern and Minnesota.

My earliest memories involve watching the Washington Rose Bowls, Mercury Hayes making the catch against Virginia and of course the terrible hail mary. I watched all of those in my grandpa's living room with family members who didn't go to the games.

I remember watching Woodson tear up the '97 circuit and the '98 Rose bowl and all that fun stuff from the same living room.

After we didn't renew the season tickets, I got mini packs and saw some great games as a high-schooler. Some wins over Wisconsin and MSU. Henne's first game and the 2003 Ohio State game - that was the best of all.

In college, I used my brother's graduate ID and student status to get student tickets with some other friends (in doing so I skipped out on my own school's games... oh well, they suck).

So I had great student seats throughout 2006 and witnessed some defensive dominance and then also sat through the horror of 2007. But I did get to see a win over ND.

To date, I've seen wins over every Big Ten team in person, and multiple against MSU/Penn State/Minnesota/ and Wisconsin. I've seen us roll over ND, and countless MAC foes, plus a few cool teams like Vanderbilt, Utah and San Diego State. It's been a lot of fun.