Michigan was in desperation mode late in the 4th quarter against PJ Fleck and the Minnesota Golden Gophers. The blow out had become a tight game after Michigan's two TD lead had evaporated into a 3 point lead.
Michigan was discombobulated thinking the "Little Brown Jug" was heading out of Ann Arbor and both players and coaches were in a deep fog of despair. Minnesota is clearly going to try an onsides kick and it was going to be directed towards the Golden Gophers sideline. The kick off team nearest the Gophers sideline started early, but are already a few yards behind the line of scrimmage.