Michigan’s Iconic Dance Competing for Best Sports Tradition in U.S.

When it comes to college sports, few things are as powerful as tradition. Whether it’s a sea of fans moving in perfect rhythm, a beloved song echoing through the stadium, or a decades-old ritual that brings generations together, these moments create memories that last far beyond game day.

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One of those unforgettable traditions belongs to the University of Michigan—and it’s getting national recognition once again!

The Wolverines’ high-energy “Blues Brothers Dance” is back in the spotlight as part of USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards for Best College Sports Tradition.

Fans nationwide are being asked to vote for their favorites among 20 iconic rituals selected by a panel of experts.

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Last year, Michigan’s crowd-pleasing dance earned the No. 5 spot in the annual poll.

According to The Michigan Daily, the tradition dates back to 2008 at Yost Ice Arena, where students encouraged the pep band—and its animated director—to break into dance. One fan, Kevin Lance, introduced the signature punching motions that have become a staple of the routine.

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Over time, the dance moved to the Big House, where it’s now performed between the third and fourth quarters to “I Can’t Turn You Loose” from The Blues Brothers movie. The result is a stadium-wide celebration of Wolverine pride.

Watch how the crowd came alive during the Michigan vs. Rutgers football game on Sept. 23, 2023. Afterward, the band keeps the hype going with Mr. Brightside—another U-M favorite.

While no Michigan State University tradition is up for the honor, another U-M rival is competing: Ohio State University's marching band performing Script Ohio, a drill where they spell out the letters of "Ohio". C'mon, we gotta beat Ohio!

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You can vote for U-M's Blues Brothers Dance once per day through August 18 at noon here.