Remembering The 'Ten Year War' - 1974 Edition

By 1974, the Ten Year War was in full swing.  Since Bo's victory in 1969, the rivalry had taken a new life with both teams splitting sharing victories over one another.  Despite what some considered a "win" for Michigan in 1973, the Buckeyes had went to the Rose Bowl and gotten all the glory for the previous season.  The controversy that surrounded the two teams hung heavy over both programs throughout the 1974 season and especially in the weeks and days preceding "The Game".


Background:
Michigan may not have went to a bowl game in 1973 despite having an undefeated record, but the Wolverines came out swinging in 1974.  They dominated the first opponents on their schedule, allowing 1 touchdown in their first 3 games and winning by a combined score of 107-7 against some decent opponents, including Iowa and Colorado.  Michigan's defense weakened a bit over the following weeks, but the Wolverines were not seriously threatened until they faced Wisconsin in Camp Randall.

Remembering The 'Ten Year War' - 1973 Edition

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.