The Michigan Wolverines beat the Washington Huskies 34-13 to clinch the program’s first national title since 1997.
Questions about Jim Harbaugh, J.J. McCarthy, and the rest of the possible returning seniors can wait. At least for now. Tonight, and the next few weeks, should be a time of celebration for Michigan fans. Bask in it, savor it, and remember that this is an honor that 99% of college football fans will never feel.
Of course, it’s tough to focus on the details while watching a national title game. Here are some smaller notes from Monday’s win that just missed our five takeaways article, but are relevant nonetheless.
- Blake Corum willed this team forward. There was a lot of stagnant offense from Michigan this year. There was sketchy play calling and tough drops, but Blake Corum was always there to move the chains. He is off to the NFL now, but he could go down as the greatest back to ever play for Michigan. His time is over, but it will not be forgotten.
- A number of early enrollee recruits got to witness this win firsthand, including quarterback Jadyn Davis. Obviously, these recruits will dream of recreating the victory when they are starters but having the experience certainly puts a clear goal in their mind. Look for these youngsters to become the leaders of Michigan’s future teams.
- As mentioned earlier, eyes will soon turn to next year’s roster. It will be different, but younger and still talented. Keep your eyes on Zeke Berry, Karmello English, Cam Brandt, and Darrius Clemons as breakout candidates who didn’t have a large role this year. Believe it or not, next year’s team might actually be better according to recruiting rankings.
- Donovan Edwards scored the first two touchdowns on Monday night… and that showcases the mental toughness of not only himself but the roster. He has had a tough year but rebounded by becoming a team-first player instead of moping around. He answered the call in the biggest game of the season and deserves everything good that comes his way. Hats off to a player who has bought into the culture and been rewarded with a ring. Here’s to hoping he sticks around one more year.
- Next year the team might go relatively pass-heavy if McCarthy returns. In fact, that might be part of the deal to get him back. Michigan could return starters McCarthy, Loveland, Edwards, and Morris, which favors the passing game more than this year’s team with Corum. The goal is for Clemons, Morgan, English, and Moore to step up to create a scary passing attack. It’s wishful thinking right now, but there’s a good shot it ends up coming true.
- Next season could see four 2022 recruits starting in the secondary. If Moore and Paige declare, Michigan will be left with Johnson and Walker at boundary cornerback and Sabb and Berry at safety. All four players belonged to a 2022 class that was crucial to the success of this years team.