Michigan lineman scoffs at MSU countdown clock: 'At least they'll be on time'

ANN ARBOR - It's no secret that beating Michigan is at the top of every Spartan's "to-do" list. Soon after his hiring last November, first-year Michigan State coach Mark Dantonio put a clock in the MSU practice facility that has been counting off each second until Saturday's kickoff (3:30 p.m./ABC).

The No. 14 Wolverines (7-2 overall, 5-0 Big Ten) don't seem to think too much of Dantonio's countdown clock. They brushed it off like a cheap motivational tactic.

"At least they'll be on time for the game," Michigan left tackle Jake Long said on Monday at Michigan's weekly press conference.

Dantonio's clock hasn't been exclusively counting down to the Michigan game. Though Saturday's battle for the Paul Bunyan Trophy has been clock's main focus, Dantonio said the clock has been set for other events as well, such as the start of fall camp, or MSU's first game of the season.

"That's cool. Whatever. We know when the game is," Michigan cornerback Morgan Trent said.

Saturday's game will mark the 100th meeting between Michigan and Michigan State. The Wolverines hold a 66-28-5 lead in the all-time series, and have won the last five contests.

"I guess they can keep time," Michigan defensive tackle Will Johnson said. "I guess if they need that for motivation to get ready for the game then good for them."