Run for the Roses: Cedric Benson

On not being selected a finalist for the Heisman Trophy:
I haven't thought twice about not going to New York. When I fall short of opportunity, I don't get upset about that stuff or down about it. With all of the speculation of whether or not I was going, I kind of figured I wasn't going and I didn't even think about it really. Aside from that, I am pumped to to play in the BCS in the Rose Bowl in Pasadena. It's a huge stadium, the weather is going to be nice and we are playing Michigan. Those are the things that are going to get me excited about playing football.

On getting back to practice after a couple weeks off:
It felt good to get back to work and see the guys. It's a little different because we don't have a game this weekend, so you have to get adjusted a little bit and keep yourself focused while you are out there. Everybody is really excited about playing in the Rose Bowl and getting the opportunity to play Michigan. We're making sure we are getting things done on the practice field.

On Michigan:
They are a tough team with a few losses because of some small mistakes. They look good. They have a lot of good athletes. They had quite a few guys down in Orlando [at the ESPN College Football Awards] this past weekend. I know they are going to come ready to play and excited. There's going to be a lot of talent out there on the field.

On Michigan's defense:
The Big Ten plays a different style. They get to the ball really well. They seem to have a really good run-stopping defense and are real physical. But it's nothing new. In the Big 12, everybody is physical and tries to stop the run too. I think they mainly run a 3-4 defense which will be a little bit of adjustment because we haven't seen that too much. I'm just looking forward to this game against a new team in a new atmosphere.

On other activities during the week of the bowl game:
Prior to the game, I think it's okay to do it just to keep yourself loose and enjoying things. But, at the same time, you have to stay on point. You don't want to slip up and keep it in the back of your mind that you are on a business trip. It's very important to stay focused on the game and make sure you are not doing anything to take away from your game.