The Michigan State Spartans have dominated their rivalry with the Michigan Wolverines in recent years, winning six of the past seven meetings.

Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh, in his first season in Ann Arbor, isn't worried about the past. That's because he has taken some wise words to heart.

No, Harbaugh wasn't talking about learning from legendary football coaches like Vince Lombardi or Woody Hayes. He was quoting Rafiki, the mandrill from The Lion King:



Great reference, Harbaugh.

Rafiki's words are perfect for this situation. The past can hurt, but it really doesn't matter when it comes time for the present. The fact that the Wolverines have just one win against the Spartans since 2008 means nothing. That's in the past. This is a different squad now with a new coach.

Michigan and Michigan State will meet at the Big House on Saturday. Although they won't be playing for control of Pride Rock, they will be playing for the Paul Bunyan Trophy—and to stay in the hunt for the Big Ten title.

[Big Ten Network, YouTube]