Well, I actually don't hate Michigan. Don't get me wrong, I love it when the Buckeyes beat them and I suffer when the tables are turned, but hate?
The school's academic strength adds to the reputation of ALL Big 10 schools. The accomplishments of their alums prove the strength of the school. Think of how Texas, Florida and Vandy feel when compared, academically, to the rest of their conference.
The maize and blue record in football took the national focus off of the Ivy League. They have produced oustanding players and legendary teams. When you beat Michigan it's an accomplishment. Try getting the same satisfaction out of a victory over Iowa or even Penn State.
I like the fact that their uniform goes largely unchanged year after year. Like it or not, it's a trademark, like Yankees in pinstripes. Would you want the Bucks to line up for the season defining game against a team dressed like Oregon or Va Tech?
I love the fact that they have more wins than Notre Dame and I love it when they beat the Irish, something we seldom get the chance to do. (God Bless MSU for this too).
I admire their fight song. By choosing a lower key, the composer created a song that's easy to sing and carries over crowd noise and the other band. I respect their band. Always great arrangements and a distinctive sound of their own that reflects on the excellence and tradition of their school of music.
I want to see my school win and I want to see them win against the best, to be better than a worthy opponent. To that end I have nothing but respect for Michigan and what they bring to the greatest rivalry in college football.
Hey, without them, it's just another Big 10 match up.
Go Bucks!