It wasn't supposed to happen this way. In a rivalry traditionally built on hard-fought, down-to-the-wire battles, victories just don't come this easily.

But there is only one word that can capture the latest chapter in the Michigan/Notre Dame rivalry book - domination.

No. 3 Michigan's 38-0 win was historic. It was the first time the Wolverines have shut out the Irish since 1902, and their 38-point margin of victory is the largest ever (the previous record was 23 points, set in 1898 and 1902).

By the end of the first half, it was clear that the Wolverines, plain and simple, were just the better team on the field. Both on offense and defense, Michigan seemed to know everything Notre Dame was going to do before it happened -and the Wolverines were ready. They had a greater sense of motivation and simply wore down the Irish.

"I don't think we've ever been this prepared for a game," offensive lineman Tony Pape said. "We spent so much time in the film room and at practice. We were ready for them."

Chris Perry seemed to be on a mission. The senior rushed for 133 yards on 31 carries and three touchdowns. He also had a touchdown reception on a short pass from John Navarre.

"Our offensive line made great holes for me," Perry said. "They have been doing a great job all year. When they make holes like that, I have no choice but to run through them."

Navarre also seemed to have sharpened his game after last week's rough performance against Houston.

The senior threw for 199 yards and a touchdown. He spread the ball among his receivers effectively, and made good decisions with the ball. Navarre, who has been criticized for his performances in Michigan's rivalry games, was poised and under control throughout the game.

No team is perfect, but the Michigan defense came very close. It set the tone very early. Following Navarre's fumble, Notre Dame started on Michigan's 38-yard line. Three plays later, it had moved just one yard and was forced to punt.

"The defense was the difference today," coach Lloyd Carr said. "They gave us great field position all game. The defensive stop after our first possession turnover was major. I have to take my hat off to our team."

The defensive front, led by a hungry Larry Stevens, simply overpowered the Notre Dame offensive line. It also contained Notre Dame quarterback Carlyle Holiday, who usually picks apart defenses with his ability to scramble, was not a factor.

"I feel like we put a pounding on them," said Markus Curry, who had an interception in the second quarter. "We kept giving it to them and we never let up. Coach Carr said to never let up. No matter what the score is, no matter who is in the game, never let up."

With their first road game coming up this Saturday in Oregon, it's nice to have this kind of momentum to build on. Everything is clicking for the Wolverines right now, and they know it. But this is still just the beginning.

"I did not think in my wildest dreams that this could happen," said Carr of the blowout. "It was our day and things went well for us. But we have a long season and you have to come ready to play."