This past weekend’s football game between Michigan and Michigan State represented a classic, yet underappreciated situation in sports.

Michigan dominated the first half of play. They outgained Michigan State tremendously, started three consecutive drives in Michigan State territory, and generally looked better on both sides of the ball.

As a Michigan State fan, it must have been disheartening. They could barely get a first down and it seemed like only a matter of time before Michigan broke a big play.

Yet going into the half, Michigan only led 7-0.

And after a few big plays to start the half, the game was tied and ESPN’s score predictor actually showed Michigan State as the favorite.

Ultimately, things turned back around and Michigan ended up winning the game, but the situation shows an interesting insight into sports, and other competitive endeavors.

Regardless how much better one side might be, there always seem to be a few key situations that determine an outcome.

Whether it’s redzone performance, free throws down the stretch, the ability to close a sale, the final touches on a product release, or whatever; it’s possible to be perfect 99% of the time but still lose.

 

When you’re on the leading side, that means you can’t take anything for granted until you finish the deal.

And when you’re trailing, devastated by the seemingly insurmountable gap between your play and the plat of your opponent, remember that there’s always a chance to pull out the win as long as you can stay in the game long enough.

-Brandon