Team 144

A week has now passed since the University of Michigan won the college football national championship.  I lived this team.  Since Michigan was highly ranked all year I was able to watch just about every play this year.  After disappointing losses the past two seasons this year’s team sole purpose was to win the”natty”.  Many of the top players that could have left for the pros after left season came back for one more shot.  The team battled through much adversity this year including their head coach serving two different three game suspensions.  They easily won their games this year with the closest game being in the Rose Bowl against Alabama.  

You could tell the players enjoyed each other and they played like a team.  The 2023 team had stars but no superstars.  It was a team effort with everyone doing their part.  Highlights included huge wins against Penn State and Ohio State in Big Ten play and post season wins against Alabama and Washington.  

There was allegations of sign stealing that could have put a stigma on the season had they not won a their games.  Fortunately they were clearly the best team in the country. Both the offense an defensive were exceptional all season.  Tough is the word I think of when I think of this team.

Aside from winning the championship the highlight of the season was the opportunity to travel to Ann Arbor and see the Indiana game in person.  It had been 20 years since I had been to the big house and it was a thrill.

Team 144 refers to this being the 144th year of Michigan football. This team will go down as the best of them all and help restore Michigan to a top program in the country.  

With success comes change.  Starting quarterback JJ McCarthy announced today he is foregoing his senior year to turn pro.  Head coach Jim Harbaugh will also probably leave for a pro opportunity.  I wish them well and send them off with a big thank you!  This team was incredible and a thrill to watch.

Go Blue!

Until tomorrow….

Dave