MICHIGAN WINS THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP
Behind running backs Donovan Edwards and Blake Corum and a great defensive effort, the Michigan Wolverines beat the Washington Huskies for the National Championship
With the world watching Michigan and Washington squared off at NRG Stadium in Houston for the National Championship. The Wolverines got the ball first and scored first on a 41 yard run by Donovan Edwards. Washington responded with a field goal but then Edwards broke loose again for a long touchdown. A James Turner field goal early in the second quarter made it 17-3. Michael Penix Jr. led the Huskies down for a touchdown right before the half to make it a 17-10 Michigan lead at half.
Washington got the ball to start the second half but on the first play Michael Penix Jr. threw a pick to Will Johnson that was cashed in for another James Turner field goal. Another Washington field goal made it 20-13 at the end of the third. There were missed opportunities for Washington and costly penalties for both teams but in the final quarter, Michigan asserted their will.
A long JJ McCarthy pass to Colston Loveland set up a Blake Corum touchdown to extend the lead to 27-13. Washington tried to keep it close but on 4th and long the defense forced Penix to throw an interception to Mike Sainristil that was returned to deep in Washington territory. Blake Corum ran for his 27th touchdown of the year to seal the Wolverines first national title since 1997.
Donovan Edwards on one of his two touchdown runs in the first half. He finished with six carries for 104 yards and two touchdowns.
With a crowd that included Derek Jeter, Jalen Rose, John Harbaugh, Travis Scott among many others the Maize and Blue confetti came raining down and Team 144 found themselves on top of the college football mountain with a 15-0 record. After a year marred with scandal and accusations the job is now finished. Jim Harbaugh has put the Wolverines back where they always should be, on top. A historic season rewarded with the highest prize in college football. Donovan Edwards and Blake Corum both ran for over 100 yards and two touchdowns. JJ McCarthy didn't throw the ball nearly as much as Michael Penix Jr. but he did not make no mistakes.
For myself I am overcome with joy and relief. The Wolverines are truly the Victors. This season has been an absolute joy to cover through everything. I absolutely can't wait until then. To Team 144, thank you and congratulations. You will be remembered forever as National Champions. The job is now finished and let the party begin.
Jim Harbaugh hoisting the CFP National Championship trophy.