The Battle for the Little Brown Jug

I love the Jug. It's the original trophy in college football and it has a ton of history behind it. Sure, Michigan hasn't lost to Minnesota since 1986 but the game still has a rivalry flair to it primarily because of the Jug. And the last 2 times we've met? Oh man, you know the Gophers are still stewing over blowing those 4th quarter leads (including the 28-7 lead at the dome 2 years ago).

Today's game should be a good one. Don't be fooled by the Gophers blowout loss in Happy Valley last week. Penn State had the Minnesota game circled all year. Minny had humiliated them on numerous occasions and Penn State caught them at just the right time. They've still got Laurence Maroney who is probably the most talented back in the country. They've also got a very good OL and some weapons at WR. Their QB (Cupito) isn't the most accurate passer around, but he's got good touch on the deep routes and is capable of burning a D when they creep up to play the run. Minnesota's D is a little tougher this year with a new DC, but they still lack a little in the talent department.

I look for this to be a close game in the 2nd half with Michigan's offense eventually having too much firepower for the Gophers. Mario Manningham is really coming on strong as a #2 threat across from Jason Avant. With Steve Breaston likely back in action in the slot, watch out as our passing game is really starting to come together. Throw in Mike Hart cranking out another 150+ and Michigan should score 34+ points this week.