Iowa and Michigan shared the Big Ten Conference title with identical 7-1 records. A 30-17 Michigan win over Iowa on September 25 ultimately decided the conference's Rose Bowl participant. Michigan was awarded the traditional Big Ten Rose Bowl selection by virtue of the victory in head-to-head competition over Iowa.
In the Big Ten Conference, Iowa and Michigan tied for first place with identical 7-1 records. A Michigan victory over Iowa on September 25th decided who would represent the conference in the Rose Bowl.  Michigan was chosen to play in the Rose Bowl due to their win against Iowa.