Toledo Blade: Article by Joe Vardon

Wolverines still play smash-mouth

Wisconsin runs in tradition of Big Ten

By JOE VARDON
BLADE SPORTS WRITER

ANN ARBOR - Terrance Taylor talked this week about his Michigan Wolverines needing to do more than just stop the run.

The UM senior defensive tackle said the Wolverines must halt a spreading rumor.

"I don't know why, but some people think because we run the spread [offense], it's gotten a little soft around here," Taylor said. "Nothing's changed. It's still smash-mouth. It's still Michigan football. I'm going to put my helmet in your face."

All of that is why Taylor is so excited to go up against No. 9 Wisconsin Saturday in the Big Ten opener for both teams.

The Badgers run the ball as if they are contractually obligated to do so, meaning Taylor and the rest of UM's defense will engage in the type of trench fight that could erase any growing Wolverines stigma.

But they have to man up.

"It's our livelihood on the line now," senior linebacker John Thompson said.

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