The parallels would have been unmistakable.
In 1969, a brash new Michigan coach had arrived on the scene, instilling toughness in his team and bringing new hope to the program. Going into the final game of the season, the Wolverines had two losses, including one to Michigan State in conference play, but had generally exceeded expectations.
That same year, Ohio State was the defending national champions. The Buckeyes brought so many players back from the '68 title squad that many declared them one of the best teams of all time. They had a 22-game winning streak under the most feared coach in the Big Ten.