The last time Michigan came to South Bend, Everett Golson was pulled in the first quarter. He knew he had only one shot at redemption as this great rivalry was set to end. Golson answered the call just fine. He threw for 226 yards and three touchdowns. He also had no interceptions. Golson distributed the ball well but his primary receivers were William Fuller who had 9 catches for 89 yards and a touchdown and Amir Carlisle with 7 catches for 61 yards and 2 touchdowns.
But as good as Golson was, it was the defense that stole the show. After being torched a year ago in Ann Arbor by Devin Garder, the defense was after some redemption of it's own. Not only did they intercept Gardner three times but they also held him to less than 200 yards passing.
The Irish front just dominated the Michigan line. Brian VanGorder has a much more aggressive style than Bob Diaco did. Watching the Rice game, I got the feeling that he was holding back a little. He saved some blitz packages for Michigan. The Irish defenders were coming after Gardner from all angles.
In a series that has historically been close especially in recent years, the final meeting was all Irish. This is the first time Michigan was shut out in this series. Imagine having to live ending the series like that.
Now Notre Dame can put this rivalry behind them and move on to bigger and better things.
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