Funny,those were the losses the players hated most,except for Okie.Appreciate a thoughtful piece. I agree “never quit” was a key characteristic of team and expectations might be overly affected by “close” mentality.
Still, I think 4th quarter leads (2 on the road) against 3 ranked teams where crazy meltdowns - errant punt, QB held up and mugged, and horrible punt blocking - showed a team close to being a bowl team at least. Add spotting another ranked team in Wisconsin a TD on a kick return and then knocking on end zone to tie or win at end of game. Not too mention road game at Oklahoma with blocked FG for points and still having ball in your hands with time to win.
Those all show close from a talent standpoint. Many aspects contributed. Not anywhere close like a 1993 to National Championship,
MSU was the one I've heard most lamented. Michigan too.
They were nipping at Okie, they knew it, blew the other games.