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WEEK 11

COME OFF THE BENCH AND MAKE AN IMPACT

Del Duduit

November 23, 1996: Michigan 13, Ohio State 9

MICHIGAN ROLLED INTO COLUMBUS, OHIO, a 17-point underdog to number-two-ranked Ohio State. The Buckeyes were undefeated and had hopes of a national championship and a trip to the Rose Bowl on their minds.

The Wolverines set a defensive tone early on, even though they did not score in the first half. Ohio State drove the ball inside the red zone three times but had to settle for three field goals. Offensively Michigan struggled, and Brian Griese was put in at quarterback at the half to try to boost the offense.

He had an immediate impact. On the second play in the third quarter, he connected on a slant pass to Tai Streets for a score to cut into the Buckeye lead. Now the Michigan ground game finally came to life. The Wolverines rushed for 49 yards in the next drive, which ended with a field goal and a 10–9 lead.

The Buckeyes had opportunities but could not capitalize on chances to score. Michigan, on the other hand, was determined to put the ball in the end zone and win the game. A twelve-play drive that marched 67 yards and ate up five minutes of the clock culminated with a 39-yard field goal and a 13–9 lead.

Now the defense had to rise to the occasion. Marcus Ray made sure that happened when he picked off a pass for the Wolverines to secure the win, upset the Buckeyes, and end Ohio State’s dreams of a national championship. There was no better feeling in the world than ruining the aspirations of the Scarlet and Gray.

In the second half alone, Michigan outgained the Buckeyes 237 yards to 84. Griese’s courage and determination provided a spark to the struggling Michigan offense and inspired the defense to hold strong.

What can you do to motivate others? How do your actions affect the other players on your team?

LOOK OVER THE DEFENSE

Perhaps you are on the bench and watching the game of life go by. You are consumed with your own agenda and have not given much attention to your team. You want them to win, and you put in your time at practice with the hope of seeing the field one day. You go to work and come home and live a good life, but you want more. You have a desire to contribute to a big win. But how? All you need is one chance to let everyone know what you can do on the field.

Then suddenly, you get the call. You are thrust into the game. Are you ready? What will you do to provide a spark in your life and to those around you?

GO FOR THE PYLON

You don’t have to make a dramatic interception or score a last-second touchdown to be considered a winner. You can have an impact on someone’s life with simple acts of kindness. Consider a way to donate your time. Instead of spending a Saturday on the golf course or at the lake, stop in and give your time at a homeless shelter. Volunteer at a soup kitchen or go through your closet and find good clothes to take to the Salvation Army. Time is your most valued commodity. When you give it, you will come off the bench and have an impact.

Make family your highest priority. If you have children, try never to put anything in front of their needs. There are times when work must come first, but that should be a rare occasion. If your son has a game in the evening, you need to try to be there. When your daughter has a dance class, make the effort to support her. Your family needs your attention more than your boss. Take a Sunday afternoon and pamper your spouse. When you put your family first, the rest falls into place.