MSU’s Dantonio sets tone against rival Michigan

Posted October 11, 2011 12:00 am

Associated Press

EAST LANSING, Mich. — Michigan State coach Mark Dantonio makes no secret of how he treats Michigan a lot different from other opponents.

The Spartans have had a countdown clock, ticking off time left before playing their rival, since Dantonio’s first day in charge.

Dantonio lost to the Wolverines in 2007, when Michigan running back Mike Hart referred to Michigan State as a little brother. The first-year coach lashed out at Hart, saying “they need to check themselves,” and “pride comes before the fall.”

Since then, Michigan State has beaten Michigan three straight times and has a shot Saturday at home to match a school record with a fourth consecutive win in the series.

Dantonio’s players have followed his lead. Defensive end Jerel Worthy has a tattoo displaying a Spartan stomping on a Wolverine.

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