Honoring Bo Schembechler (1929-2006)

Today, just one day before a game that both Bo and Woody would have loved to have coached, Bo Schembechler has died at the age of 77 in Southfield, Michigan.

It is a somber day for both Ohio State fans and for University of Michigan fans. Bo was a major proponent in the hyping of the rivalry to the level of magnitude it now has. Born in Barberton Ohio, Bo had a far reach from Columbus all the way to Ann Arbor. Bo was assistant coach at Ohio State from 1958 to 1962, developing a great friendship with Woody Hayes. In 1963, Bo accepted a head coach job at Miami (of Ohio) University, staying there until 1968 when he would take the helm of "That Team Up North". Woody and Bo were great friends to the end, despite on field bitterness during the OSU-MI game.

Saturday afternoon in the Shoe, there will be a moment of silence to pay homage to the life, contributions and career of Bo Schembechler. Everyone, despite their team affiliation should take off their hats to the other man who made this tradition what it is today.

One thing is for sure, Bo and Woody will both be looking down at Ohio Stadium tomorrow, and probably doing what they did best... Being passionate about their teams.

Not to be reprinted in any form without consent from the publisher (Andrew Streetman)

In Memory of Bo Schembechler

April 1, 1929 – November 17, 2006

The case for a BCS showdown between OSU and UM

Lets face it... The SEC, ACC and PAC-10 (S.A.P for short) teams have not lived up to what they may have been in the past. Once touted as undefeated S.A.P teams, then touted as one-loss S.A.P teams (capable of winning the national championship), are now being touted as two-loss teams capable of winning the national championship. All of the S.A.P comments aside, there are a few teams out there still with a goose egg in the "L" column. Boise State, and Rutgers. I cannot critisize these teams, as I knew nothing of either team before this year. You have to ask yourself, "Do Rutgers or Boise State have a chance of surpassing USC, Florida, or Notre Dame?"

I don't believe they do, unless something changes in the way the computer averages the polls. Teams like USC, and Florida have a stronger pull, as they are in stronger conferences. But the verdict is still out, (S.A.P anyone?).

So that being said, here are the top eight reasons why OSU and UM should play for the National Title...

8. Buckeye fans would love another opportunity to shout "Muck Fichigan".
7. The chance to see the number one rivalry in college football twice in one year.
6. The game November 18th will only be for the Big Ten championship, not the National Championship.
5. They are undesputably the best two teams in the country, hands down... (Sorry S.A.P fans).
4. More money will be brought to Glendale, Az than if OSU played USC...
3. It will allow Jim Tressel to increase his vs. Michigan average by 2 "W"'s in one year.
2. It will be the only way the Fiesta Bowl will have more viewers than the game Nov. 18th.
1. Because ever epic batle between two adversaries needs a rematch.


To USC, Notre Dame, and Florida : There's always next year!


Thanks for letting me rant.

StreetChariot