The first four games of the Ten Year War had been very exciting, but none would be more controversial than the 1973 contest between the Wolverines and Buckeyes. Yes, the 1971 game had been controversial because of the game-sealing interception, but it would be nothing like the weeks and offseason following the finale to the 1973 season. The game would prove to be so important that it would permanently change Big Ten policies and change the face of the rivalry.
Background:
After a disappointing finish to the 1972 season, Michigan had rebounded well, beginning the season ranked #5 in the nation and holding their first seven opponents to 10 points or less. During this stretch, Michigan would also be great on the offensive side of the ball, only scoring fewer than 20 points once. By time the 1973 Ohio State game rolled around, Michigan had won 31 of its last 32 regular season games, something that would be impressive during any coaching tenure.
The 1971 game may not have had as much hype as the 1969 and 1970 games in the Ten Year War, but the 1972 game brought the rivalry back to the forefront of the nation. Tensions were stirred pretty high and although there was some pressure rising on Woody Hayes after a 6-4 season and a 1-2 record against Bo leading into 1972, both coaches had their programs in top shape and vying for the Big Ten title, a Rose Bowl berth, and a shot at the national title in Pasadena during this time.
Background:
This was a monumental year for college football in several ways. First, the "no repeat" Rose Bowl rule was abolished, meaning that a team could go to the Rose Bowl in consecutive seasons from the Big Ten, which would be applicable to Michigan in the 1972 season since they made the Rose Bowl in 1971. Along with this, the NCAA allowed freshmen to play on the varsity team. This would be quite significant because it allowed Ohio State's famed running back Archie Griffin to be able to play during the 1972 season.
The 1969 and 1970 games in the Ten Year War were great, but the 1971 game was close fought and was a nail-biter all the way until the end. This game didn't have as many extra factors as its predecessors, but the actual play was exceptional. There had never been good feelings between Michigan and Ohio State, but the 1971 game showcased just how much this game meant to both teams, both during and after. Without the 1969 and 1970 games, the way this game unfolded probably wouldn't have happened, but this game was extremely important in the Ten Year War
Background:
After Bo's undefeated season had been ruined by Woody's team in Columbus in 1970, the preparation had begun quite early for 1971, in fact, right after Michigan got back to Ann Arbor. Michigan had used this preparation to build on the team's impressive play during the majority of the previous season. The 1971 Wolverines were simply dominant. They were 10-0 entering the Ohio State game and had held 8 of their opponents to one score or less. The only team that even finished within a touchdown was Purdue the week before "The Game".
