Former Michigan star goes on tirade, calls Michigan State 'little brother'
Rivalry games get more than just the current players fired up, and former Michigan tackle Taylor Lewan’s hatred of Michigan State is a perfect example of that. In an interview Friday, the Tennessee Titans player went on a rant about why the Wolverines are superior to the Spartans.
“Michigan State is our little brother,” Taylor Lewan began. “Now, I know what you’re thinking. In 2010 to 2013 when I was there, did Michigan State dog us? Yes. No question. I’m not here to talk about when I was there. I’m here to talk about now. Michigan is the No. 2 defense in the country. I’m not here to talk about Georgia, who’s No. 1. The boys in blue are the No. 2 defense in the country. Our offense, they say we’re run heavy. But our pass game is really coming along.
“Overall, Michigan State is gonna get donkeyed at home. East Lansing, whatever that Podunk-a** town is. They’re going down. Michigan is going home and taking Paul Bunyan. Kindly — I’m not gonna say the f-word — but … Michigan State…you know what I’m saying? Not gonna say the f-word, but … Michigan State.”
There is even more anticipation for this year’s edition of the rivalry than usual. Both schools enter the contest undefeated and ranked inside the top 10. The winner will not only take home the Paul Bunyan Trophy, but also put themselves in position to play for a Big Ten title.
Although Lewan’s assertion about the Wolverines defense wasn’t entirely accurate, they are still among the best units in the Big Ten. They rank second only to Wisconsin in yards allowed per game with 298.1 and first in points allowed (14.3).
The Spartans have gotten to this point in the year on the back of Kenneth Walker III, who leads the conference in rushing. Whichever team wins the battle up front is likely to emerge as the victor and remain unbeaten.
After entering the year on the hot seat, Wolverines coach Jim Harbaugh has silenced doubters for now. In his seventh year with the program, he is searching for his first double-digit win season since 2018.
Can he prove Taylor Lewan right and lead Michigan to victory over Michigan State? Or will little brother get the last laugh?