Both sides of the rivalry were questioned about last year’s brawl in the Michigan Stadium tunnel following the Wolverines’ 29-7 victory as Michigan State and Michigan prepare to resume their yearly confrontation on the football field.
Harlon Barnett, the Michigan State interim head coach, claimed his team was more concerned with this game than with what happened the year before. “We’re focused on this year and just playing the game, 11 on 11, on the football field,” Barnett stated. “11 on 11, on the football field, is all that matters, and that’s where our emphasis is. You have plenty of opportunities to play hard and go after them outside, and we’re going past all the other stuff. When prompted for remark, Jim Harbaugh, the head coach of Michigan, gave a similar answer. “That seems like a long time ago,” Harbaugh remarked. It’s a goldfish mentality, as J.J. noted, and I agree with him. Moving forward.
We are aware of what occurred the previous year, but we must control our emotions, he continued. “Remain focused on the main objective. It’s a huge match. We had to manage our business throughout, be ready, and have a level head.
Harrell was asked if Michigan players discuss the incident in the tunnel much. The senior said, “Nah, not really”, with a smirk.
Although the Wolverines will be overwhelming favorites when they travel to East Lansing on Saturday, Roman Wilson, a wide receiver for the Wolverines, said the team knows better than to underestimate the Spartans. No matter where we are, Wilson added, “They’re always going to come in here and try to kick our ass.” “You must always exert the same level of energy. What occurs before the game or during the game is irrelevant. What occurs when we enter that field is all that matters. The Wolverines will gear themselves for a lengthy four-quarter contest with the Spartans, according to Harbaugh as well.
It’s a tough team,” Harbaugh said of Michigan State. “I think coach Barnett has got them playing really well, and got ‘em on the move. It’s for the state championship game. We expect one heck of a football game, and got to get prepared for it.”
