This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2015, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.

Popular Mechanics' foray into sports prognostication wasn't exactly a piece of cake earlier this week after the magazine dedicated to "how the world works" wasn't sure how college football works.

The magazine's September issue calendar declared Michigan's matchup against Utah next Thursday a "cupcake game." Yes, a Michigan team that went 5-7 and lost to Utah 26-10 last season while the Utes amassed a 9-4 record in the rigorous Pac-12.

To settle the score Thursday, the magazine sent a box of cupcakes as a peace offering, accompanied by a note that read: "To the Utah Utes football program: We heard you guys have been reading Popular Mechanics. On behalf of our entire editorial staff — even the rabid Michigan fan who writes the monthly calendar — we want to wish you luck next week."

The magazine's apology was nice, but the real frosting on top will come on Sept. 3rd if the Utes can beat the Wolverines.

-Brennan Smith

Twitter: @BrennanJSmith