Michigan 23 Washington 6
Bo Schembechler has only a 9-2 team when he arrives in Pasadena but he says "this one knows how to win the big one." He is correct as he bags his first Rose Bowl victory in six tries, a convincing 23-6 triumph over Don James' 9-2 Washington Huskies. Durable Butch Woolfolk runs the pigskin 182 yards in 26 carries and speedy Anthony Carter catches five passes for 68 yards and gains 33 yards more on four key pitchout plays as Michigan dominates in the second half. Quarterback John Wangler breaks open a 7-6 duel by "going to" Carter's skills and speed. The Huskies blow first half scoring chances when they gain 269 yards without getting a touchdown, the most painful turnover being a fumble by potent Toussaint Tyler while trying to cross the goal line. Chuck Nelson does manage to get two field goals for the Huskies.