Michigan crushed Washington 34-13 in the College Football Playoff Championship at NRG Stadium in Houston.
The Michigan Wolverines have been under the leadership of head coach Jim Harbaugh, who has helped them navigate the team’s challenging journey to become champions. After nine seasons coaching the Wolverines, Harbaugh brought the championship title that was expected from him since he took over the team in 2015. Harbaugh was able to bring the championship to the school despite having to miss six regular-season games because of separate suspensions due to a controversial spying and cheating scandal that became the team’s identity in the later part of the season. Harbaugh commented on his win and his team by stating: “Glorious win, I could not be prouder or happier of our team: 15-0. Took on all comers. Last one standing. It’s a great feeling.” Harbaugh brought the Wolverines prepared to Houston as they were coming off of an undefeated season and they were seeded #1 in the nation.
The opening quarter set the tone for the championship battle. Michigan’s offense, led by quarterback, JJ McCarthy, scored a crucial opening touchdown on a breakout 41-yard rush by star running back Blake Corum. The offense and defense working together set the score 14-3 at the end of the first quarter.
In the second quarter, the teams seemed at a standstill as each offense turned the ball over on downs before Washington was able to drive down the field off a Michigan turnover to score a touchdown on 4th and goal with time almost expired before the half. The drive was impressive, led by star QB Michael Penix Jr., a Heisman finalist and projected first round pick.
Coming from halftime, it was clear that Harbaugh’s motivational speech worked. The Wolverines picked off Penix on the first play of the half, setting up a field goal to go up 20-10. The Huskies responded with a field goal of their own, cutting the deficit to only 7 points at 20-13. For a while, it looked as if Washington was very much in the game and could tie it at any point, but both teams traded punts until the middle of the fourth quarter.
Finally, McCarthy completed a huge pass to his receiver for 41 yards in the fourth quarter, setting up a touchdown for a commanding Michigan lead. While Washington began to drive down the field with time running low, Penix threw a crucial interception that was returned for 81 yards, resulting in a quick touchdown from Blake Corum to seal the victory.
Michigan’s 2023 national championship victory wasn’t only a title for the school, but also a showcase of the individual power of the players and coaches who rose to the occasion despite the hardship they had to endure. As the Wolverines celebrate their championship title, the 2023 game will always be remembered as a defining moment for the school.