Cornhuskers may still have a shot, pending outcome of Tennessee in Orange Bowl

Web posted January 3, 1998

By Rob Gloster
Associated Press

PASADENA, Calif. -- The undefeated Michigan Wolverines (12-) could do little but watch No. 2 Nebraska face No. 3 Tennessee in Friday night's Orange Bowl and wonder whether it would have any impact on their hopes for a national title.

The Associated Press' final poll of writers was to be released this morning. Every top-ranked team that won its bowl game has remained No. 1, and the Wolverines argue they should be no different.

``All I know is what I read,'' Michigan coach Lloyd Carr said Friday. ``If the past is any consideration, there is hope there.''

Nebraska was playing its final game for coach Tom Osborne, raising speculation of an emotional boost to the Cornhuskers' chances for a national title -- especially in the coaches' poll, also to be released today.

But Washington State coach Mike Price said his mind already was made up -- he voted for Michigan.

``They made plays when they had to, and that's a sign of a national champion,'' he said. ``Michigan is No. 1; they are getting my vote.''

Carr said it was fitting the Wolverines completed their undefeated season with a win in the Rose Bowl, exactly the same scenario as when Michigan won its last national championship a half century ago.

``It's incredible that 50 years ago, Michigan won this game and won the national championship,'' Carr said. ``I told some members of that team I wanted to win. In 2048, I expect there will be another reunion.''