1969

Forty years not so long ago for some of us. Remembering times when it was said to me, "Michigan!, Are you stupid?" And my Dad would say to me, "Actions speak louder than words. Bide your time, things will change." Then, in late November, when it looked to be impossible, things DID change. Listening to the radio (WOHO Radio) a voice shouted, " Little Barrry Pierson takes the punt at the 38. He's at the 50...40...30...10, tackled at the 4 yard line." One play later, Michigan scores and takes the lead. Yes! Over OSU! A team that had been called the greatest of the century and had won 22 games in a row. Could this be real, I thought? It is only the 2nd quarter. Many a prayer was said over the long remaining 2 quarters but in the end, it happened. The greatest upset in college football history. 24-12 MICHIGAN. When it was all said and done, my Dad said, "Times they are a changing" and change they did.

For the next 40 years looking back at this rivalry I was told many times, "Michigan doesn't stand a chance in hell" But, over the years, someone has risen to the occasion. A walk on quarterback, Brian Griese, a running back with a funny name, Tshimanga "Tim" Biakabutuka and a bunch of other no-names.

So after a heavy hearted season, I am back to praying. I feel this is our turn around time. Someone will rise to the top and be the leader and the best.

A side note... humor of the game. I played softball with a group of guys for over 20 years. We would all get together for the game. The year, 1976, OSU at home. As we all meet at the home of OSU fan, Roger Place. My Dad, age 70 was the oldest there. He didn't wear Michigan on his sleeve like I do. Surrounded by Buckeyes just before the game, Roger tells us how he has a bet with a guy in Ann Arbor on the game for $100 bucks. And he's getting 21 points. My Dad and I exchanged knowing looks that, as usual, Roger was full of shit. The game starts slowly.... 0-0 first quarter. Midway second quarter, Jimmy Smith catches a long punt from OSU and starts to dodge Buckeyes going up the field. Just then, my Dad jumps from his chair yelling, "Run you SOB, Run!" After a 40 yard return, he is tackled and an OSU fan looks at my Dad and says, "Joe, that's Michigan." My Dad said, "Who do you think I'm rooting for, you Asshole?" Complete silence. I was laughing inside. 0-0 at the half. Third Quarter, Michigan scores on the opening drive 7-0. No problem, Roger says. Later 3rd quarter, Michigan scores again 14-0. BUT NO, WAIT, FAKE KICK 2 POINTS. MICHIGAN 15-0. Roger's not smiling. 4th quarter. Greatest running back from Ohio scores for Michigan. (Rob Lytle #41) 22-0 and the final score. Roger loses and said not a word during the whole UCLA v. USC game. Dad and I laughed all the way home. I have more stories than time so I'll stop here. M GO BLUE!