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.