Odds and Sods

Tim Tebow may have counted to infinity twice, but he proved no match for the much maligned Michigan defense, as the #12 Florida Gators were upset by Michigan in the Capital One Bowl 41-35.

The victory itself was impressive for the Wolverines, though, in truth, the scoreline does little to tell the story.  Michigan dominated the game on both sides of the ball, edging Florida in total yards (524-399), third down conversions (10/15 - 2/11), and first downs (28-18).  The equalizer was Michigan’s four turnovers, including two fumbles from the normally infallibe Mike Hart near the goal line.

It was an emotional day for Michigan.

Lloyd Carr capped off his Michigan career with a victory.  He ended it on his own terms and with the sweet sticky stench of success (and Gatorade), as his devoted players carried him from the field.  Though many have called for his head in recent seasons, none of the Wolverine faithful begrudged him his final, fitting triumph.

It was a successful swan-song for Michigan’s seniors.  Henne, Hart, and Long finally brought an elusive bowl victory to the Maize and Blue, ending a drought that had stemmed from the 2003 Outback Bowl.

It was also a joyful day for the fans as well.  The season that began with disaster, ended with this highly touted team finally preforming to their awesome potential.

The Wolverines embark upon a new era tomorrow, but it was a great day for the entire Michigan family to collectively celebrate the end to a glorious era.

Though it ended with neither trophies nor roses on New Years Day, it was truly “great to be a Michigan Wolverine.”