The Paul Bunyan Trophy is staying home where it belongs, in Ann Arbor, with the Michigan football program.
It wasn't easy. It was often frustrating, but in the end, Michigan football reminded the Spartans they are little brother once again with a 31-20 victory.
Bryce Underwood looked like a freshman at times. However, he didn't turn the ball over, rushed for a touchdown, and didn't make any big mistakes. The Wolverines leaned on the running game. Justice Haynes and Jordan Marshall both gashed Michigan State, especially in the second half.
The Wolverines had three rushing touchdowns in the second half. They had four total to go along with 276 rushing yards. The Spartans had 115. Michigan football had 362 yards total. The defense needed fourth-down stops on consecutive possessions in the fourth quarter to keep it a two-score game, and this was much closer than the score makes it look.
However, the offensive line dominated for most of the second half, although the offense still sputters too much. Michigan's defensive line dominated in the second half, too, after allowing way too many rushing yards in the first half.
20 points allowed isn't a solid day at the office, but it was good enough. That's all that matters. This game is always weird and chippy. It wasn't a perfect performance. A win is a win, though, especially in this game.
Aidan Chiles completed 14-of-28 passes for 130 yards. He was sacked three times and had -7 rushing yards. Underwood completed 8 of 17 passes for 86 yards on top of 26 on the ground.
Here are the gut reactions from another state championship.
Gut reactions
This Michigan football team has to learn how to finish. The final touchdown allowed was a great example of that.
Michigan would not have won this game without Justice Haynes. The former five-star running back and the offensive line turned the tide in the second half.
Winning the last two road games will be a huge challenge. Bryce Underwood has to figure out how to play better away from the Big House.
This game reminded me of Penn State in 2023.
Michigan has two elite backs, and they rewarded the coaching staff for the heavy workload. Jordan Haynes had 152 yards and two touchdowns. Marshall added 110. They carried the offense the way Marshall carries defenders.
Michigan has the best running back duo in the country.
I still can't figure out why Sherrone Moore didn't attempt a Hail Mary before half.
Michigan's playoff hopes are alive and well.
There is a lot to clean up on both sides of the ball, yet the Wolverines made a big play whenever it was needed. That's a really good sign.
Go Blue!