Most of the projections, even as late as Sunday afternoon, had Michigan playing Florida (6-6) in the Gator. But the Gator Bowl committee made a "last-minute decision," according to the source.
This will be the first bowl game for Michigan under coach Rich Rodriguez, who is completing his third season as head coach. The Wolverines last made a bowl in January 2007, when they defeated Florida, 41-35, in the Capital One Bowl in Lloyd Carr's last game as Michigan coach.
Mississippi State is a run-oriented offense and is ranked 16th nationally, averaging 215.8 yards a game. Vick Ballard is the team's leading rusher, averaging 81.1 yards. Defensively, the Bulldogs are ranked 20th in rushing defense (121.67 yards) and 53rd in total defense.
Michigan has built huge offensive numbers thanks mostly to sophomore quarterback Denard Robinson, named the team's Most Valuable Player and the Big Ten's offensive player of the year. Michigan is sixth nationally in total offense, averaging 500.92 yards.
Gator Bowl 2010
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