Backyard Brawl

We're just a couple of days away from the "Backyard Brawl" here in Michigan, which, of course, refers to the annual showdown between MSU and that other Big Ten team from our state.  Both teams enter the "Brawl" this year undefeated, the first time that has been the case since 1999, and Sparty looks to best their rivals for the third year in a row, something they have not accomplished since 1965-67. 

After last week's solid victory over then #11 Wisconsin, Sparty was shown some love in the polls, leaping over the other team from our state that struggled to squeak out a victory over Indiana.  Sparty moved up to #17 in the AP, with the other team at #18, and Sparty is #16 in the Coaches' Poll, while the other team is #17.  Nevertheless, since the game will be played in the other team's so-called "big house," Sparty is a 4.5 point underdog, according to odds-makers.  That's okay.  We Spartans love being the underdog! 

MSU coach Mark Dantonio, who suffered a mild heart attack a few weeks back after the Notre Dame victory, will be back with the team this week.  He'll probably coach from the press box, but he'll be there calling the shots.  You simply can't keep him away from this game, which is always the biggest on the schedule for Sparty.

I'm sure it is rather clear by now, but I really can't stand that other team from our state.  I often say that if Al Qaeda had a football team and they were playing that other team from our state, I'd be rooting for Al Qaeda.  I don't know why people laugh when I say that.  I don't see the humor in it at all.  Really, not at all.  I also have never understood how anyone could be a fan of either team from our state, but root on the other team when they're not playing each other.  That simply does not compute.  There is no middle ground here.  You are either for Sparty or the rich, snobbish, arrogant team from Ann Arbor.  Period.  Of course, it's no surprise that the vast majority of those who do the "I'm a fan of this team, but root for the other team from our state when they're not playing each other" thing are not Spartan fans.  We know what faithfulness and loyalty mean, after all.
 
And so, as I anticipate the game, I am reminded of a few of my fondest sports memories (think of the song, "These are a few of my favorite things" as you view what appears below):

One of the greatest moments of my life, right up there with my marriage to Lisa and my children being born!

The "Hail Mary" from QB Kordell Stewart which won the game for Colorado - Still remember the amazing feeling I had when I watched this!

Maybe my favorite sports memory of all time!  I'm sure it needs no further description! :)