Spartans, Wolverines focused on upcoming game, not 2022's tunnel incident

As Michigan State and Michigan get set to renew their annual showdown on the gridiron, both sides of the rivalry were asked questions about last year's altercation in the Michigan Stadium tunnel following a 29-7 win for the Wolverines.

Michigan State interim head coach Harlon Barnett said his team was focused on preparing for the game, not what happened last year.

"We're focused on this year and just playing the game, 11 on 11, on the football field," Barnett said. "That's all that matters and that's where our focus is: 11 on 11, on the football field. You get plenty of chances to get out there and get after them and play hard, and all the other stuff we're moving forward past that."

Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh had a similar response when asked for comment.

“That seems like a long time ago," Harbaugh said. "I like what J.J. said — it’s a goldfish mentality. It’s onward.”

Michigan State's players will not be made available for questions this week until Tuesday, but several Wolverine players shared their mindset surrounding the upcoming game and last year's incident on Monday.

“We’re just treating the game like the rivalry it is,” U-M senior running back Blake Corum said. “We’re going to watch a lot of film, but Saturday we’ll just go in there and handle business like always, like we have the past couple games. We’re not going to hold a grudge over what happened last year. You always keep it in the back of your mind, but we’re not going in there (thinking) we’re going to rough them up or anything like that. That’s part of the past. We’re going to get in there, handle business and come out victorious.”

Michigan defensive end Jaylen Harrell echoed Corum's answer.

“Obviously, we know what happened last (year), but we can’t let our emotions get the best of us,” he said. “Keep the main thing the main thing. It’s a big game. We got to handle business throughout, prepare and not let it get to us.”

Harrell was asked if Michigan players discuss the incident in the tunnel much. The senior said, “Nah, not really”, with a smirk.

The Wolverines will be a heavy favorite when they come to East Lansing on Saturday, but U-M wide receiver Roman Wilson said they know better than to take the Spartans lightly.

"They’re always going to come in here —no matter where we’re at — they’re going to try to kick our ass,” Wilson said. “You got to have that same energy every time. It doesn’t matter what happens after the game, before the game. All that matters is what happens when we step on that field.”

Harbaugh too said the Wolverines will prepare for a full four-quarter battle with the Spartans.

“It’s a tough team,” Harbaugh said of Michigan State. “I think coach Barnett has got them playing really well, and got ‘em on the move. It’s for the state championship game. We expect one heck of a football game, and got to get prepared for it.”

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