The 2023 Michigan Wolverines football team was an American football team that represented the University of Michigan in the East Division of the Big Ten Conference during the 2023 NCAA Division I FBS football season. In their ninth and final year under head coach Jim Harbaugh, the Wolverines compiled an undefeated 15–0 record, outscored opponents by a total of 538 to 156, and won their third consecutive Big Ten championship with a 26–0 victory over Iowa in the Big Ten Championship Game. Michigan was ranked No. 1 in the final College Football Playoff rankings and defeated No. 4 Alabama, 27–20 in overtime, in the 2024 Rose Bowl. They defeated No. 2 Washington, 34–13, in the 2024 College Football Playoff National Championship to claim their first CFP title and 12th national championship in program history, their first since 1997, and their first unanimous championship since 1948. Their 303 rushing yards against Washington is a record high in a CFP National Championship game, and they were the first national champion to have a lead at halftime in every game of the season since Miami in 2001. Michigan also became the fourth team and first Big Ten team to complete a 15–0 season in the modern era (and first with a schedule comprised entirely of FBS opponents), after Georgia in 2022, LSU in 2019, and Clemson in 2018. They were also ranked No. 1 in the AP and Coaches Polls for the first time since the 1997 season. With their win against Maryland on November 18, the Wolverines became the first program in college football history to record 1,000 wins.[1]
Harbaugh was suspended by the university from game-day coaching for the first three games of the season. He was also suspended by the Big Ten for the final three games of the regular season as punishment of the program for the unresolved allegations of the Michigan Wolverines football sign-stealing scandal. Offensive coordinator Sherrone Moore led the team to four victories, including wins over No. 10 Penn State and No. 2 Ohio State, as acting head coach during Harbaugh's absence.
Preseason
Coaching changes
On January 17, 2023, sources reported that co-offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Matt Weiss was placed on leave pending an ongoing police investigation into a report of "computer access crimes" that occurred in December 2022.[2] On January 20, 2023, Michigan announced that "[a]fter a review of University policies, the athletic department has terminated the appointment of co-offensive coordinator/quarterbacks coach Matt Weiss."[3]
On January 27, it was announced that Michigan promoted Kirk Campbell to the role of quarterbacks coach, replacing the departed Matt Weiss. Campbell spent 2022 at Michigan as an offensive analyst after serving as the offensive coordinator at Old Dominion for two seasons.[4]
On February 8, Michigan announced the return of former Michigan assistant Chris Partridge to the staff in an unspecified role. Partridge served in a variety of roles at Michigan from 2015 to 2019 and spent the last three seasons as the co-defensive coordinator and safeties coach at Ole Miss.[5]
On February 16, Michigan and linebackers coach George Helow mutually agreed to part ways.[6]
The next day on February 17, Michigan announced that the previously hired Chris Partridge would be the linebackers coach, replacing Helow. In the same announcement, Sherrone Moore became the sole offensive coordinator, have previously served as the co-offensive coordinator alongside Weiss.[7]
Suspensions of Jim Harbaugh
On August 23, Michigan announced that it was self-imposing a three-game suspension on head coach Jim Harbaugh related to recruiting violations.[8] Days later it was announced that Sherrone Moore, Jesse Minter, Jay Harbaugh and Mike Hart would all serve as interim head coach in Harbaugh's absence with Minter coaching the first game, Jay Harbaugh coaching the first half of the second game, Hart coaching the second half of the second game, and Moore coaching the third game. In addition, Jack Harbaugh was named assistant head coach and strength and conditioning coach Ben Herbert was promoted to associate head coach.[9] On November 10, Harbaugh received another three-game suspension, this time related to the Michigan Wolverines football sign-stealing scandal.[10][11] Moore was named as the interim head coach for the duration of Harbaugh's suspension. A planned court hearing to challenge the suspension was cancelled as Harbaugh agreed to accept it, with the Big Ten also closing its investigation the same day.[12]
Roman Wilson 10-yard pass from J. J. McCarthy (kick missed)
MICH 20–0
2
0:00
MICH
James Turner 50-yard field goal
MICH 23–0
3
9:13
MICH
Roman Wilson 15-yard pass from J. J. McCarthy (James Turner kick)
MICH 30–0
4
0:00
ECU
Andrew Conrad 33-yard field goal
MICH 30–3
To open the season, Michigan played against East Carolina. Before a crowd of 109,480 at Michigan Stadium, the Wolverines defeated the Pirates, 30–3.[31] It was the first meeting between the two programs. The game began with back-to-back three-and-outs as neither team had success on their initial possessions. On East Carolina's second possession, Michigan intercepted a Mason Garcia pass at the Michigan 46-yard line. The Wolverines then drove 57 yards, scoring on a 14-yard touchdown pass from J. J. McCarthy to Roman Wilson. On Michigan's next drive, the Wolverines drove 90 yards on seven plays, including a 37-yard run by Blake Corum followed by a two-yard touchdown run by Corum. On the Wolverines fourth possession, they drove 76 yards on seven plays and scored on a 10-yard touchdown pass from McCarthy to Wilson and James Turner missed the extra point. On their final possession of the half, Michigan drove 42 yards on 10 plays, with Turner kicking a 50-yard field goal on the final play of the half. Michigan led, 23–0, at halftime.[32]
After the second-half kickoff, Michigan drove 75 yards on 12 plays, scoring on a 15-yard touchdown pass from McCarthy to Wilson – the third touchdown pass and catch of the game for the pair. On its next possession, Michigan drove 79 yards on 12 plays but were stopped short of the goal line. On the opening drive of the fourth quarter, Davis Warren took over at quarterback for Michigan; the Wolverines began the drive at the East Carolina 38-yard line, gained only four yards, and James Turner missed a 52-yard field goal attempt. Andrew Conrad kicked a 33-yard field goal for East Carolina as time ran out.[32]
Defensive coordinator Jesse Minter served as acting head coach for the game and was credited with the victory, as Jim Harbaugh was serving a three-game suspension. Quarterback J. J. McCarthy recorded his best career passing game at home (280 yards, three touchdowns). McCarthy's 86.7% completion percentage (26-for-30) ranks second-highest in program history, behind Elvis Grbac's 90.9% (20-for-22) against Notre Dame on September 14, 1991.[33]
Roman Wilson 47-yard pass from J. J. McCarthy (James Turner kick)
MICH 28–0
3
3:16
MICH
Blake Corum 5-yard run (James Turner kick)
MICH 35–0
4
2:43
UNLV
Jordan Younge-Humphrey 20-yard run (Jose Pizano kick)
MICH 35–7
Following its opening game against East Carolina, Michigan hosted the UNLV, winning 35–7, before a crowd of 109,482 at Michigan Stadium.[34] As a result of the university's three-game suspension of Jim Harbaugh, special teams coordinator Jay Harbaugh served as acting head coach in the first half, while running backs coach Mike Hart was the acting head coach in the second half. Hart became the first African American to serve in the role of head football coach at Michigan.[35]
On the game's opening drive, UNLV drove 19 yards before punting. On the Wolverines' first possession, they drove 80 yards on nine plays, as J. J. McCarthy completed passes to Blake Corum for 20 yards, Tyler Morris for 16 yards, Roman Wilson for 25 yards, and Cornelius Johnson for six yards, and Corum scored on a three-yard run. Michigan's defense then held UNLV to a three-and-out. On their second possession, the Wolverines drove 75 yards on 11 plays, including McCarthy's passes to Tyler Morris for 15 yard and AJ Barner for 12 yards. McCarthy then ran 17 yards to UNLV's two-yard line, and Corum scored on a two-yard run on the first play of the second quarter.[36][37]
UNLV was limited to five yards and a punt on its first drive of the second quarter. Michigan then drove 42 yards to UNLV's 18-yard line, but Corum's run on fourth-and-two failed to gain the necessary yardage. UNLV then drove 25 yards on seven plays but was forced to punt. On its second drive of the second quarter (fourth of the game), Michigan drove 83 yards on 19 plays, including passes to Cornelius Johnson for 18 yards, Donovan Edwards for 15 yards, and Roman Wilson for 13 yards and a touchdown. Michigan led, 21–0, at halftime.[36][37]
On the opening drive of the second half, McCarthy completed a touchdown pass to Roman Wilson covering 47 yards.[36] As he completed the 47-yards pass to Wilson, McCarthy wore the number 47 on his hand in tribute to high-school teammate and former UNLV player Ryan Keeler who died of a heart arrhythmia in February 2023.[38] UNLV responded with a seven-play, 42-yard drive to Michigan's 33-yard line, but the drive ended with a turnover on downs. The teams then exchange three-and-outs. Michigan then drove 76 yards on four plays, including a 19-yard run by Corum and a 26-yard pass completion from McCarthy to Johnnon; Corum scored on a five-yard run, and Michigan led 35–0, at the end of the third quarter.[36][37]
In the fourth quarter, Davis Warren took over at quarterback for Michigan. Warren threw an interception on his second pass, and UNLV took over at its own 23-yard line. UNLV drove 37 yards but was unable to convert on fourth-and-three at Michigan's 40-yard line. Jack Tuttle took over as Michigan's quarterback, but was knocked out of the game on a late hit out of bounds. Jayden Denegal took over at quarterback, and Michigan was held to a three-and-out. UNLV then drove 81 yards on nine plays, scoring on a 20-yard touchdown run by Jordan Younge-Humphrey.[36][37]
Through two games, J. J. McCarthy has completed 48 of 55 pass attempts for an 87.2% completion percentage.[39] Running back Blake Corum posted 15 carries for 80 yards and scored three rushing touchdowns, for his 11th career multi-touchdown game.[40]
Cornelius Johnson 50-yard pass from J. J. McCarthy (James Turner kick)
MICH 31–6
On September 16, Michigan defeated Bowling Green, 31–6, before a crowd of 109,955 at Michigan Stadium.[41] It was the final game of Jim Harbaugh's three-game suspension with offensive coordinator Sherrone Moore serving as acting head coach. Bowling Green head coach Scot Loeffler played for Michigan in the 1990s and was an assistant coach at Michigan from 2002 to 2006.[42]
After holding Bowling Green to a three-and-out, Blake Corum ran for a 54-yard gain on Michigan's first offensive play. Corum scored three plays later on a four-yard run, capping a 77-yard drive. Bowling Green was held to another three-and-out on its second possession. On Michigan's second possession, the Wolverines drove 38 yards to Bowling Green's five-yard line, but the Falcons intercepted a J. J. McCarthy pass in the end zone. It was McCarthy's first interception of the season. Michigan led, 7–0, at the end of the first quarter.[43][42][44]
Following McCarthy's interception, Bowling Green drove 62 yards on 12 plays, ending early in the second quarter with a 36-yard field goal by Alan Anaya. Michigan tight end Max Bredeson fumbled a short kickoff, and Anaya kicked a second field goal (a 42-yarder) to cut Michigan's lead to 7–6. McCarthy threw his second interception on Michigan's next possession. The Wolverines got the ball back with 6:51 remaining in the half and drove 62 yards on five plays, culminating with a 33-yard touchdown pass from McCarthy to Roman Wilson. Despite giving up three turnovers, Michigan led, 14–6, at halftime.[43][42][44]
In the third quarter, Michigan defensive tackle Kris Jenkins intercepted Hayden Timosciek's pass inside the Bowling Green 10-yard line, setting up Michigan's third touchdown on a two-yard run by Corum. Michigan forced another turnover on Bowling Green's next possession, as defensive end Jaylen Harrell stripped the ball from the hands of Bowling Green's Camden Orth, and Michael Barrett recovered the loose ball inside Bowling Green's 30-yard line. Michigan capitalized on the turnover with a 42-yard field goal by James Turner. On Michigan's next possession, the Wolverines executed a flea-flicker as McCarthy threw a 50-yard pass to Cornelius Johnson; the ball was tipped and juggled but Johnson held on for the touchdown. With less than a minute remaining in the third quarter, McCarthy threw his third interception of the game. Neither team scored in the fourth quarter.[43][42][44]
Corum rushed for 101 yards and two touchdowns on 12 carries, his first 100-yard rushing game of the 2023 season. In his worst game of the season, McCarthy completed eight of 13 passes for 143 yards, two touchdowns, and three interceptions.[45]
Mike Sainristil 71-yard interception return (James Turner kick)
MICH 24–7
4
12:38
MICH
Blake Corum 5-yard run (James Turner kick)
MICH 31–7
In the season's first conference game, Michigan defeated Rutgers, 31–7, before a crowd of 109,756 at Michigan Stadium.[46] Rutgers opened the scoring in the first quarter via a 69-yard touchdown pass from Gavin Wimsatt to Christian Dremel. It was the first time Michigan had trailed during the 2023 season. Michigan responded with 31 unanswered points, including a two-yard touchdown run by Blake Corum in the first quarter to tie the game. Michigan scored seven points in the second quarter on an 18-yard touchdown pass from J. J. McCarthy to Semaj Morgan. Michigan led, 14–7, at halftime. Michigan scored 10 points in the third quarter on a 46-yard field goal by James Turner and a 71-yard interception return by Mike Sainristil. Michigan extended its lead in the fourth quarter on a five-yard touchdown run by Corum.[47]
Head coach Jim Harbaugh returned to coaching the team following his suspension and earned his 75th career victory at Michigan, becoming the fourth coach in program history to reach the milestone. Quarterback J. J. McCarthy completed 15 of 21 passes for 214 yards and a touchdown. Michigan's defense forced three turnovers on fourth down against Rutgers. Through the Rutgers game, opponents were a combined 0–7 on fourth down against Michigan.[48]
Following the opening kickoff, Michigan drove 75 yards on 11 plays, ending with a 29-yard touchdown pass from J. J. McCarthy to Roman Wilson. Wilson made the catch in the end zone by pinning the ball against the helmet of a Nebraska defender. On Nebraska's second offensive play, Braiden McGregor tipped a pass, and Kenneth Grant intercepted the ball at Nebraska's 29-yard line. Michigan then scored on a 20-yard touchdown run by Kalel Mullings.[50][51][52]
On Michigan's first possession of the second quarter, the Wolverines drove 88 yards on nine plays, including passes of 16 and 10 yards to AJ Barner and ending with a 21-yard touchdown run by McCarthy. Later in the quarter, the Wolverines drove 55 yards ending with a 16-yard touchdown pass from McCarthy to Wilson. Michigan led, 28–0, at halftime.[50][51][52]
Nebraska began the third quarter driving to Michigan's 16-yard line, but a quarterback sack pushed the ball backwards and Tristan Alvano missed a 40-yard field goal attempt. Michigan then drove 78 yards on 11 plays, including a 19-yard pass from McCarthy to Darrius Clemons and ending with a one-yard touchdown run by Blake Corum. After forcing a three-and-out, the Wolverines drove 63 yards on 13 plays with Jack Tuttle at quarterback and scored on a 30-yard field goal by James Turner at the start of the fourth quarter. On Michigan's next possession, Jayden Denegal took over at quarterback and led the Wolverines on a 50-yard, 10-play drive, ending with an eight-yard touchdown pass from Denegal to Peyton O'Leary. Nebraska scored on a 74-yard touchdown run by Joshua Fleeks with 4:17 remaining in the game.[50][51][52]
McCarthy finished the game completing 12 of 16 passes for 156 yards and two touchdowns and also scored on a 21-yard run. Roman Wilson tallied two touchdown receptions.[52]
On the second play from scrimmage, Michigan cornerback Will Johnson intercepted an Athan Kaliakmanis pass and returned it 36 yards for a touchdown with only 12 seconds having been played. The Wolverines then held the Golden Gophers to a three-and-out. On their first offensive possession, Michigan drove 59 yards on 10 plays, ending with a 31-yard field goal by James Turner. Minnesota responded with 40-yard drive and a 54-yard field goal by Dragan Kesich. The teams exchanged punts on the next two possessions. On their first drive of the second quarter, the Wolverines drove 62 yards on six plays, starting with a 40-yard run by Blake Corum and ending with a one-yard touchdown run by Corum. After holding Minnesota to a three-and-out, Michigan drove 67 yards on four plays, including a 49-yard pass from J. J. McCarthy to Cornelius Johnson and a five-yard touchdown run by McCarthy. In the closing minutes of the first half, Minnesota drove 75 yards on 11 plays, ending with a 35-yard touchdown pass from Kaliakmanis to Daniel Jackson with six seconds remaining in the half. Michigan led, 24–10, at halftime.[54][55][56]
The second half opened with successive three-and-outs by Michigan and Minnesota. On their second possession of the half, the Wolverines drove 78 yards on nine plays, including receptions by Roman Wilson of 17 and 34 yards and a seven-yard touchdown run by McCarthy. After holding Minnesota to a three-and-out, Michigan drove 49 yards on six plays, ending with a 24-yard touchdown pass from McCarthy to Colston Loveland. On Minnesota's next possession, Keon Sabb intercepted a Kaliakmanis pass and returned it 28 yards for a touchdown with 3:20 remaining in the third quarter. In the fourth quarter, Michigan forced three punts by Minnesota and extended their lead with a 70-yard drive led by Jack Tuttle and ending with a two-yard touchdown run by Leon Franklin.[54][55][56]
In his post-game interview, Minnesota head coach P. J. Fleck called Michigan "the best football team I've seen in eleven years of being a head coach. I've never seen a football team like that . . . They're one of the deepest teams, one of the best teams, biggest teams, fastest teams, strongest teams, and they do not make mistakes. They are truly like a boa constrictor and they do not beat themselves."[57]
Michigan out-gained Minnesota by 432 to 169 in total yards. McCarthy completed 14 of 20 passes for 219 yards and a touchdown and also rushed for 17 yards and two touchdowns. Corum rushed for 69 yards and a touchdown on nine carries.[55]
Michigan scored on two pick-six touchdowns for the first time since 2017 against Cincinnati.[58] Michigan also scored at least 30 points for its ninth consecutive game, setting a new program record, surpassing the previous record of eight consecutive games in 1976.[59]
The teams opened the game with consecutive three-and-outs. On Indiana's second possession, the Hoosiers drove 60 yards to the Michigan 10-yard line, but the Wolverines pushed the Hoosiers back to the 16-yard line, and Michigan's Rod Moore intercepted a Tayven Jackson pass (tipped by Mike Sainristil) at the three-yard line and returned the ball to the 40-yard line. Michigan was again held to a three-and-out and, following the punt, Indiana drove 77 yards and scored on a trick play with quarterback Brendan Sorsby throwing a backward pass to wide receiver Donovan McCulley (a converted quarterback) who then threw a 44-yard touchdown pass to a wide-open Jaylin Lucas. Indiana led, 7–0, at the end of the first quarter. Michigan allowed three sacks and was outgained, 141 yards to 17 yards, in the first quarter.[61][62]
Michigan then scored 52 unanswered points on their next eight possessions. On the opening possession of the second quarter, Michigan drove 77 yards on 11 plays, culminating with a one-yard touchdown run by Blake Corum. On their next possession, the Wolverines drove 87 yards on 11 plays, including pass completions from J. J. McCarthy to Tyler Morris for 14 and 23 yards and AJ Barner for 18 yards, and ending with a two-yard touchdown pass from McCarthy to Roman Wilson. In the final 1:40 of the first half, Michigan drove 46 yards on six plays, scoring on a one-yard touchdown run by Corum with 11 seconds remaining in the half. Michigan led, 21–7, at halftime.[61][62]
On the opening kickoff of the second half, Semaj Morgan returned the ball to the 35-yard line. The Wolverines scored as McCarthy rolled out to the right and connected with Colston Loveland for a 54-yard touchdown pass. Michigan's defense held Indiana to three-and-out and negative 13 yards on a sack by Jaylen Harrell at the Indiana 11-yard line. Michigan then drove 52 yards on five plays, including a 22-yard run by McCarthy and a seven-yard touchdown pass from McCarthy to Semaj Morgan. On Indiana's ensuing possession, Michael Barrett sacked Tayven Jackson, forced a fumble, and recovered the ball at Indiana's 15-yard line. James Turner kicked a 28-yard field goal, and Michigan led, 38–7, at the end of the third quarter.[61][62]
After a fumble by Indiana quarterback Sorsby, Mason Graham recovered the loose ball in the final minute of third quarter. Jack Tuttle took over at quarterback for Michigan and led the team on a 51-yard drive ending with a two-yard touchdown run by Donovan Edwards. After the touchdown, Keon Sabb intercepted an Indiana pass and returned it 28 yards to the Indiana 36-yard line. The Wolverines scored their final points on a four-yard touchdown pass from Tuttle to Karmello English.[61][62]
McCarthy led the team on offense, completing 14 of 17 passes for 222 yards and three touchdowns. With 13 carries for 52 yards and two touchdowns, Corum became the tenth player in Michigan history to reach 3,000 career rushing yards and passed Mike Hart and Denard Robinson for third-most career rushing touchdowns (43) in program history. On defense, the Wolverines tallied four turnovers on two fumble recoveries and two interceptions.[63]
The win was Michigan's 19th consecutive Big Ten victory, tying the program record set from 1990 to 1992.[63] Michigan became the third team since 2000 to start the season 7–0 while winning every game by 24-plus points, following Ohio State in 2019 and Stanford in 2011.[64]
Michigan shutout Michigan State in a blowout 49–0 to retain the Paul Bunyan Trophy.[66] Michigan scored 14 points in the first quarter via a one-yard touchdown run by Blake Corum and a 25-yard touchdown pass from J. J. McCarthy to Roman Wilson. Michigan scored 14 points in the second quarter via two 22-yard touchdown passes from McCarthy to Colston Loveland. Michigan led, 28–0, at halftime. Michigan scored 14 points in the third quarter via a 72-yard interception return by Mike Sainristil and an 11-yard touchdown pass from McCarthy to AJ Barner. Michigan scored seven points in the fourth quarter via a six-yard touchdown run by Alex Orji. Michigan's defense held Michigan State to 6-of-16 on third down, and 10 rushing yards in the first half. This was Michigan's first shutout victory against Michigan State since 2000 and their largest margin of victory since a 55–0 victory in 1947.[67]
The win was Michigan's 20th consecutive Big Ten victory, setting a new program record. With a margin of victory of 49 points, Michigan tied the 1974 Ohio State Buckeyes football team for the most consecutive Big Ten wins by 38-plus points (four). Michigan has scored 30-plus in 11 consecutive games, the longest streak in program history.[68]
Deion Burks 24-yard pass from Hudson Card (Ben Freehill kick)
MICH 41–13
On November 4, following its bye week, Michigan defeated the Purdue Boilermakers, 41–13, in a night game before a crowd of 110,245 at Michigan Stadium.[69]
On their opening possession, the Wolverines drove 76 yards on six plays, including J. J. McCarthy passes to Roman Wilson for 20 yards and Donovan Edwards for 37 yards, and ending with a two-yard touchdown run by Blake Corum. On their second possession, the Wolverines drove 62 yards on seven plays, ending with a three-yard touchdown run by Corum. After Will Johnson intercepted a Hudson Card pass, Michigan took over at the Purdue 12-yard line, and James Turner kicked a 30-yard field goal to give Michigan a 17–0 lead at the end of the first quarter.
In the second quarter, Michigan extended its lead to 20–0 on a 31-yard field goal by Turner. Purdue kicked two field goals in the last four minutes of the half to narrow the lead to 20–6.
The third quarter began with four drives ending in punts. Late in the quarter, Michigan drove 62 yards on four plays, culminating with a 44-yard touchdown run by Semaj Morgan. Early in the fourth quarter, Michigan scored on a three-yard touchdown run by Corum – his third touchdown of the game. Later in the fourth quarter, Michigan drove 57 yards on six plays, including a 35-yard pass from McCarthy to Wilson and a one-yard touchdown run by Edwards. With 18 seconds remaining in the game, Purdue scored on a 24-yard touchdown pass from Card to Deion Burks.[70]
Michigan extended its program record of scoring 40-plus points to five consecutive Big Ten games. With 335 passing yards, McCarthy passed Tom Brady for ninth place in career passing yardage for Michigan. With three rushing touchdowns in the game, Corum tied Tyrone Wheatley for second place on Michigan's career rushing touchdowns list with 47.[71]
Michigan defeated Penn State, 24–15, before a crowd of 110,856 at Beaver Stadium.[73] The first three drives of the game ended with punts. Penn State then drove 66 yards on 13 plays and became the first team to run a play inside Michigan's 10-yard line during the 2023 season. Facing a first-and-goal from the three-yard line, Michigan's defense stopped the Nittany Lions who settled for a 20-yard field goal by Alex Felkins. After Penn State's field goal, Michigan drove 75 yards on nine plays, including a 22-yard run by Donovan Edwards, a pass from J. J. McCarthy to Semaj Morgan for 19 yards and ending with a three-yard touchdown run by Blake Corum. After holding Penn State to a three-and-out, Michigan drove 78 yards on six plays, including a 44-yard run by Corum and a 22-yard touchdown run by Edwards. Late in the second quarter, Penn State drove 75 yards and scored on an 11-yard touchdown run by Drew Allar, though its attempt at a two-point conversion failed. Michigan led, 14–9 at halftime.
On the opening drive of the second half, Allar fumbled after having the ball stripped by Rayshaun Benny, and Michigan's Makari Paige recovered the loose ball at the Penn State 49-yard line. After the turnover, Michigan drove to the Penn State four-yard line, and James Turner kicked a 22-yard field goal. The defenses then took control of the game as six consecutive drives ended with punts. With four-and-a-half minutes remaining in the game, Michigan forced a turnover on downs as Allar threw an incomplete pass on fourth down. Corum ran 30 yards for a touchdown with 4:15 remaining in the game. In the closing minutes, Penn State drove 75 yards on eight plays, scoring on an eight-yard touchdown pass from Allar to Theo Johnson. Penn State again failed on an attempted two-point conversion. Penn State attepted an onside kick, but Mike Sainristil fell on the ball, and Michigan ran out the clock.[74]
Starting with the final two plays of the first half, Michigan ran on 32 consecutive plays and did not throw a pass in the second half. (McCarthy's sole pass of the second half was negated by a pass-interference penalty.)[75]Blake Corum carried the ball 26 times for 145 yards and two touchdowns. The team totaled 227 rushing yards against a Penn State defense that, prior to the game, had the top-ranked rushing defense in the county, having not allowed any opponent to rush for more than 100 yards in a game.[76]
Michigan offensive coordinator Sherrone Moore served as the team's acting head coach. Harbaugh was not allowed to enter the stadium but in a postgame interview with Fox Sports, a tearful Moore expressed his love for Harbaugh, saying: "I want to thank Coach Harbaugh. I fucking love you, man. Love the shit out of you, man. This is for you."[77]
Penn State's offense was limited to 74 passing yards. One day after the game, Penn State fired offensive coordinator Mike Yurcich.[78]
The victory was the 999th in the history of the Michigan football program. The Wolverines have the opportunity to be the first program in college football history to tally 1,000 wins.[79]
Michigan filed an application for temporary restraining order (TRO), challenging the Big Ten's suspension of Jim Harbaugh for the final three games of the regular season. The court set the matter for a hearing in the Washtenaw County Circuit Court on November 17, one day before Michigan faced Maryland.[80] However, the university dropped the case in exchange for the Big Ten ending its investigation into the scouting controversy before the case went to court.[81]
On November 18, Michigan played Maryland at College Park, Maryland. Michigan defeated Maryland 31–24. Maryland opened the scoring in the first quarter via a 35-yard field goal by Jack Howes. Michigan responded with 16 points in the quarter via a two-yard touchdown run by Blake Corum, a four-yard fumble return by Derrick Moore and a Christian Borvin blocked punt for a safety. This was the first Michigan safety since the 2018 Peach Bowl. The teams exchanged touchdowns in the second quarter, first a one-yard touchdown run by Corum for Michigan, then a one-yard touchdown run by Billy Edwards Jr. for Maryland. Michigan led, 23–10 at halftime. Maryland scored 14 points in the third quarter via two one-yard touchdown runs by Edwards Jr. Michigan extended their lead via a 13-yard touchdown run by Semaj Morgan. On Maryland's final drive of the game, Tommy Doman's punt pinned the Terrapins at their own 1-yard with 4:10 remaining in the game. Michigan scored the only points of the fourth quarter after offiials called intentional grounding for a safety. Mike Sainristil recorded two interceptions in the game. [82]
With the win, the Wolverines became the first program in college football history to win 1,000 games. Michigan improved to 11–0 to start the season for the second consecutive season. This marked their first back-to-back 11–0 start since 1901 and 1902. With 141 passing yards in the game, quarterback J. J. McCarthy passed head coach Jim Harbaugh for eighth on the program's all-time passing list. With two rushing touchdowns in the game, Corum tied Hassan Haskins' single-season rushing touchdown record of 20 set in 2021.[83]
On November 25, No. 3 Michigan defeated No. 2 Ohio State, 30–24, with both teams entering the game undefeated at 11–0. The game was played at Michigan Stadium before a crowd of 110,615. The programs met as top-three ranked opponents in back-to-back seasons for the first time in the history of the rivalry. With the victory, Michigan won the Big Ten East Division championship and improved to 12–0 for the second consecutive season.[84]
The teams traded punts on the first four drives. On Ohio State's third possession, Will Johnson intercepted a Kyle McCord pass at Ohio State's 25-yard line and returned it to the seven-yard line. Blake Corum scored on a fourth-down, one-yard touchdown run. Ohio State responded with a 51-yard drive and scored on a 43-yard field goal by Jayden Fielding. Michigan led, 7–3, at the end of the first quarter.[85][86]
Michigan drove 75 yards early in the second quarter, scoring on a 22-yard touchdown pass from J. J. McCarthy to Roman Wilson. Ohio State responded with a 73-yard drive, scoring on a three-yard touchdown pass from McCord to Emeka Egbuka. On the final play of the first half, Fielding attempted a 52-yard field goal; his first kick was good but did not count as Michigan had called timeout, and his second kick missed the mark. Michigan led, 14–10, at halftime.[85][86]
On the opening drive of the second half, Michigan drove 46 yards and scored on a 50-yard field goal by James Turner. Ohio State responded with a 75-yard, six-minute drive, tying the game at 17-17 on a three-yard touchdown run by TreVeyon Henderson. Late in the third quarter, Michigan had a 75-yard scoring drive that was delayed for several minutes after Michigan offensive guard Zak Zinter sustained a broken tibia and fibula and was taken off the field on a cart.[87][88] On the first play after Zinter's injury, Corum ran 22 yards for a touchdown and held up the numbers six and five as a tribute to Zinter who wears jersey number 65 for the Wolverines. Michigan led, 24–17, at the end of the third quarter.[85][86]
After forcing Ohio State to punt, Michigan drove 44 yards, including a 34-yard pass from Donovan Edwards to Colston Loveland, and ending with a 38-yard field goal by James Turner. Ohio State responded with a 65-yard touchdown drive, including a 28-yard pass from McCord to Julian Fleming and culminating with a 14-yard touchdown pass from McCord to Marvin Harrison Jr. Michigan responded with a time-consuming, seven-minute, 13-play drive that ended with a 34-yard field goal – Turner's third of the game. Ohio State's final drive ended with Michigan defensive backRod Moore intercepting a McCord pass.[85][86]
Sherrone Moore served as Michigan's acting head coach as Jim Harbaugh served the third and final game of a suspension imposed by Big Ten commissioner Tony Petitti. In his postgame interview with Jenny Taft, Moore said: "Coach Harbaugh, we got your back, baby. We love you. That was for you, baby."[86]
With two rushing touchdowns, Blake Corum celebrated his 23rd birthday and set a new Michigan single-season record with 22 rushing touchdowns.[89] Corum is the only player in the FBS to score in each game of the 2023 season.[90]
J. J. McCarthy completed 16 of 20 passes for 148 yards and a touchdown. For Ohio State, Kyle McCord completed 18 of 30 for 271 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions. The receivers were led by Ohio State's Marvin Harrison Jr. who caught five passes for 118 yards and a touchdown. Colston Loveland was Michigan's leading receiver with five catches for 88 yards.
On December 2, Michigan defeated Iowa, 26–0, in the Big Ten Football Championship Game at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. It was Michigan's third consecutive victory in the conference championship game.[91][92]
After holding Iowa to a three-and-out on the opening drive, Michigan drove 52 yards and took the lead on a 35-yard field goal by James Turner. After Iowa was stopped on its second possession, Semaj Morgan returned Tory Taylor's punt 82 yards to the Iowa five-yard line. Michigan scored on a two-yard touchdown run by Blake Corum and led, 10–0, at the end of the first quarter.[93][94]
The defenses took hold of the game in the second quarter, as the teams punted seven times with no points being scored. Michigan led, 10–0, at halftime.[93]
In the third quarter, Michigan's defense continued to stymie Iowa's offense. Mike Sainristil forced a fumble by Iowa quarterback Deacon Hill, recovered by Josh Wallace at Iowa's 12-yard line. The play was initially ruled an incomplete pass, but after review it was determined that Hill's arm had not begun its forward motion when the ball came loose. Iowa offensive coordinator Brian Ferentz was penalized for unsportsmanlike conduct for his protest of call, resulting in the ball being spotted at Iowa's six-yard line. On the next play after the penalty, Corum scored on a six-yard run for his 55th career touchdown, tying Anthony Thomas for Michigan's modern-era[95] record for rushing touchdowns. After Iowa failed to convert on a fourth down, Turner kicked a 46-yard field goal, and Michigan led, 20–0, at the end of the third quarter.[93][94]
Early in the fourth quarter, Braiden McGregor forced another fumble by Deacon Hill with Kenneth Grant recovering the ball at Iowa's 15-yard line. Michigan settled for a 36-yard field goal by Turner. Later in the quarter, Michigan again stopped Iowa on fourth down, and Turner kicked his fourth field goal of the game, a 50-yarder, with 3:38 remaining. Turner's 50-yard field goal was the longest in Big Ten Championship game history. Michigan won by a final score of 26–0.[93][94]
The game was dominated by strong defensive play. Iowa was limited to 155 yards of total offense (35 rushing and 120 passing). Michigan's defense had four fourth-down stops and forced and recovered three fumbles. Iowa's defense also played well, holding Michigan to a season-low 213 yards of total offense (66 rushing and 147 passing).[96] Michigan defensive back Mike Sainristil was named the game's most valuable payer.[97]
With 16 carries for 52 yards, running back Blake Corum passed 1,000-yards on the season. He became the first player with back-to-back 1,000-yard rushing seasons since Denard Robinson. Semaj Morgan's 87-yard punt return was the longest in Big Ten Championship game history, and the third-longest in modern-era program history. Mike Sainristil was named tournament MVP after he forced two fumbles and a sack in the game.[98]
Tyler Morris 38-yard pass from J. J. McCarthy (kick missed)
MICH 13–7
2
0:07
ALA
Will Reichard 50-yard field goal
MICH 13–10
4
14:30
ALA
Jase McClellan 3-yard run (Will Reichard kick)
ALA 17–13
4
4:41
ALA
Will Reichard 52-yard field goal
ALA 20–13
4
1:34
MICH
Roman Wilson 4-yard pass from J. J. McCarthy (James Turner kick)
Tied 20–20
OT
0:00
MICH
Blake Corum 17-yard run (James Turner kick)
MICH 27–20
In the final College Football Playoff rankings of the year announced on December 3, Michigan (13–0) was ranked No. 1, earning their third consecutive playoff bid and a spot in the semifinal game which was played at the 2024 Rose Bowl against No. 4 Alabama (12–1).[99]
Michigan defeated Alabama 27–20 in overtime. Alabama opened the scoring in the first quarter via a 34-yard touchdown run from Jase McClellan. Michigan responded with an eight-yard touchdown pass from J. J. McCarthy to Blake Corum to tie the game. Michigan took their first lead of the game late in the second quarter via a 38-yard touchdown pass from McCarthy to Tyler Morris. Alabama scored the final points of the half via a 50-yard field goal by Will Reichard. Michigan led, 13–10, at halftime. After a scoreless third quarter, Alabama scored ten points in the fourth quarter via a three-yard touchdown run from McClellan and a 52-yard field goal by Reichard to regain the lead. This marked the first time Michigan trailed in a second half all season. Michigan scored the final points of the quarter via a four-yard touchdown pass from McCarthy to Roman Wilson to tie the game and force overtime. Michigan scored in overtime via a 17-yard touchdown run from Corum.[100] The Michigan defense was then able to pick up a 4th-down stop to win the game and send them to the national championship.
With the win, Michigan set a single-season program record of 14 victories.[101] With his 17-yard rushing touchdown in overtime, Blake Corum passed Anthony Thomas as Michigan's career rushing touchdowns leader. Michigan's defense recorded five sacks in the first half alone, setting an all-time College Football Playoff record for sacks in a half.[102]
No. 1 Michigan (14–0) faced No. 2 Washington (14–0) in the 2024 CFP National Championship. Both teams made their first appearance in the championship game in the CFP era.[103][104] This was the third all-time meeting between 14–0 teams in the CFP National Championship following Clemson and Alabama in 2019 and Clemson and LSU in 2020.[105]
Michigan defeated Washington 34–13. Michigan scored 14 points in the first quarter via two rushing touchdowns by Donovan Edwards, from 41-yards, and 46-yards, respectively. Washington responded with a 25-yard field goal by Grady Gross. Edwards became the first player in CFP National Championship game history to run for two touchdowns of 40-plus yards. Michigan extended their lead in the second quarter via a 31-yard field goal by James Turner. Washington scored the final points of the half via a three-yard touchdown pass from Michael Penix Jr. to Jalen McMillan. Michigan led, 17–10 at halftime. The teams exchanged field goals in the third quarter, first a 38-yard field goal by Turner for Michigan, then a 45-yard field goal by Gross for Washington. Michigan scored 14 points in the fourth quarter via two rushing touchdowns by Blake Corum, from 12-yards, and one-yard, respectively. In the fourth quarter, Mike Sainristil recorded his team-leading sixth interception of the season, returning it for a season-long 81 yards. It was the longest interception return in CFP National Championship game history.[106]
With the win, Michigan set a single-season program record of 15 victories. Michigan finished as undefeated College Football Playoff champions, and won their 12th national title in program history, and first since the 1997 season. Michigan's offense finished with 303 total rushing yards, a season-high and a CFP National Championship game high.[107]
The NCAA recognizes a selection to all five of the AP, AFCA, FWAA, TSN and WCFF first teams for unanimous selections and three of five for consensus selections.
Jesse Minter (game 1)
Jay Harbaugh (game 2, 1st half)
Mike Hart (game 2, 2nd half)
Sherrone Moore (games 3, 10–12)
Jim Harbaugh (games 4–9, 13–15)
