The last time Michigan and South Carolina played, Jadeveon Clowney made one play all game … and earned instant fame.
No, he didn’t beat anyone off the line and dominate with swim move, a spin move etc. Didn’t use his gifts to overpower someone with a bull rush at the line of scrimmage, or leap a running back who went low to get him.
He took advantage of a missed assignment and ran untouched to the ball carrier, nearly decapitating him.
Someone up front in maize and blue lost a handful of helmet stickers that day.
The media, of course, played it up like it was the best defensive play in the history of bowl games. Fans nationwide celebrated with free Bloomin’ Onions at the memory.
Today, the Wolverines tighten the chinstraps just a little bit more in anticipation for the battle of 8-4 teams who haven’t beaten anybody yet. They’ve got something to prove …
Nobody steps into the bowling alley, beats them, talks trash and gets away with it.
Happy New Year, all. The picks:
TheWolverine.com Senior Editor Chris Balas: Michigan 20, South Carolina 13
There’s pressure on Michigan to win and cap an 8-0 showing for the Big Ten. The only thing standing between it is a suspect offensive line that could be more undermanned than we previously thought.
The Wolverine Senior Editor John Borton: Michigan 31, South Carolina 23
The Wolverines absorbed plenty of short-term pain this season, from shuffling quarterbacks to restocking a defense. They should be ready to begin the long-term gain on the first day of the new year. Redshirt freshman quarterback Brandon Peters and that defense come out with something to prove.
Michigan 31, South Carolina 23
TheWolverine.com Recruiting Editor Brandon Brown: Michigan 34, South Carolina 13
Michigan's defense is near elite and South Carolina's offense definitely isn't. By all accounts, Jim Harbaugh really wants this one and he should get it pretty easily.
TheWolverine.com Writer Austin Fox: Michigan 27, South Carolina 21
Who is Michigan’s best win over this season? Purdue? Minnesota? The Wolverines finally get the quality win they’ve been seeking all season on New Year’s Day.
TheWolverine.com Writer Andrew Vailliencourt: Michigan 24, South Carolina 13
Michigan’s defense will be able to keep South Carolina’s anemic offense in check.
TheWolverine.com Analyst Doug Skene: Michigan 27, South Carolina 20
Michigan will rush for 150-plus yards and keep Brandon Peters upright. Michigan’s defense must be careful no to over-pursue when South Carolina tries the misdirection.
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