Michigan-Michigan State showdown will represent a first in rivalry history

The Michigan-Michigan State rivalry game has been played for over a century, but it has never involved both teams having this one thing in common.

In 113 meetings between Michigan and Michigan State, the 2021 rivalry game is unique.

The two sides have had a few ranked matches, even battling in Top 5 matchups several times in the 1950s.

However, this is the first time both teams arrive undefeated at 7-0.

Michigan and Michigan State are both undefeated heading into the rivalry game

Michigan took care of business against Northwestern on Saturday to set up the undefeated meeting. The Spartans hit 7-0 last week and spent this weekend on a bye getting ready for their rivals.

The Wolverines and Spartans will meet on Oct. 30 for a Halloween eve showdown. It’ll be the first time since 1964 that both will be ranked in the Top 10 as well.

Sparty moved to No. 9 thanks to their impressive start while Michigan ranked No. 6 before their win over the Wildcats. They should both remain in the Top 10 when the new rankings drop.

One of them will be 8-0 by the time November arrives. The other will be left disappointed.

For Michigan, it’s a matter of revenge. The Spartans upset the Wolverines in their 2020 meeting. UM won the two meetings before that.