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".
