reflections..

Although the MSU vs U of M game happened many weeks ago, it was still a memorable game and worth reflecting on. The game is quite the experience every year, usually involving some kind of incident. No Michigan/Michigan State football game can pass by without episodes of drama. Out of all the games of the season, it is definitely the most intense one to witness and experience. Even if someone has friends at the neighboring school, they are automatically enemies for the day. It is impossible to walk the streets of either school on this day and escape unscathed.

Luckily this year, the MSU students could catch a break because the game took place on our turf. Michigan kids were not so lucky. As far as fans freaking out at eachother, it was more uneventful than other years. Last years game seemed to be the peak of crazy. It took place in Ann Arbor and it seemed impossible for me to go anywhere without being yelled at and insulted. I don't know why it was more tame than last year, but East Lansing still put up a pretty good fight.

Sure it wasn't as crazy, but I still witnessed a lot of fights and acting out. There were fights in the street, people yelling at each other, and even adults at the bars giving dirty glances to the people across the room wearing Michigan apparel. But still, it wasn't half as bad as I was anticipating.

Maybe it was increased police presence that made the day go by so much smoother. I did notice that everywhere I turned, there was a police officer watching over everyone. Cops were milling about at the stadium, invading the streets, and they were even on horses.

Out of the past three years I have been going to Michigan State games, this year seems to be the most under control. Compared to last year, this current season is calm. Even such little games, like the one against Western Michigan brought out the ugly in fans last year. It was obviously not a game that mattered much but fans were still so abrupt. Every important game that we have had thus far, I have planned to expect the worst out of fans. I was pleasantly surprised especially at the Michigan and Wisconsin games that I didn't see anything too terrible.

A good rivalry always makes things more interesting, but I have especially enjoyed going to games this year. When everyone can get along and watch a game together in peace, it really makes the experience more positive. Maybe causing a ruckus at games is getting old. Maybe fans are finally realizing it isn't worth it. Thankfully, it looks like fans are finally leaving the fighting for on the field





U of M loses to MSU

highlights