Spartans feel slighted by Outback Bowl
12/4/2017ANN ARBOR — They aren’t happy in East Lansing.
For the second time since 2011, Michigan State beat Michigan only to be passed over the Wolverines during the bowl selection process.
In 2011, the Sugar Bowl took Michigan over MSU, leaving the Spartans in the Outback Bowl. This year, the Wolverines are going to the Outback Bowl, while Michigan State will play Washington State in the Holiday Bowl.
Michigan State quarterback Brian Lewerke tweeted “Lol” and linebacker Chris Frey tweeted “What’s the point of playing a regular season if bowl decisions are made regardless of record?”
Mark Dantonio seemed far less concerned about traveling to Southern California in December while delivering an all-time zinger in Harbaugh’s direction.
"I just look at it as an opportunity to play in the Holiday Bowl,” he said. “The records are what they are. I'll just continue to continue to focus on beating Michigan."
Outback Bowl CEO Jim McVay explained the process in a conference call with media. The game zeroed in on Michigan, Michigan State, and Northwestern as possible Big Ten representatives before winnowing the field.
“We get our selection committee, we get our board [of directors], and once it’s clear who’s available and we make presentations about each team, they vote,” McVay said. “Whatever the decision, whatever the vote from the board and the selection committee, that's who we’re taking.
“We feel very fortunate to have South Carolina and coach Muschamp and the University of Michigan and Jim Harbaugh in our game. This is going to be a good one. We’re excited about it.”
Contact Kyle Rowland at krowland@theblade.com, 419-724-6110, or on Twitter @KyleRowland.