On January 1, 2018, Michigan will play South Carolina in the Outback Bowl. In what year (not season) did U-M play in its first Outback Bowl?
THE FRIDAY BLUEBOOK: 12/22/17: ANSWER A
Your answer: 1995
Not quite. This was the first year that Outback Steakhouse sponsored what was formerly known as the Hall of Fame Bowl. Penn State defeated Auburn 43-14.
THE FRIDAY BLUEBOOK: 12/22/17: ANSWER B
Your answer: 1997
Correct! Under coach Lloyd Carr, U-M fell to Alabama 14-17 in the team’s first appearance in the Outback Bowl on January 1, 1997.
THE FRIDAY BLUEBOOK: 12/22/17: ANSWER C
Your answer: 2003
Not quite. U-M did play in the Outback Bowl on January 1, 2003, defeating Florida 38-30—but this was the team’s second appearance in the game.