After winning the 2024 National Championship, the Michigan Wolverines football team was the talk of the town, with a National Championship victory and an undefeated season behind them. But lately, the narrative has shifted from “can they win it all again?” to “are they going to win even half of their games?”
Coach Jim Harbaugh announced his plans to leave the program on January 24, 2024, and become an NFL head coach for the Los Angeles Chargers. Soon after, key players followed suit, departing from the team for various reasons, creating a clear lack of chemistry and overall play on the field.
Out of last year’s historic squad, 13 players went on to the NFL, according to the University of Michigan Athletics; a true testament to what many called “the greatest Michigan football team in history.” Fans were over the moon. “For the first time in years, it felt like nothing could stop us,” said Nico Colias (‘25). “We were invincible.”
Others also followed pursuit in parting ways from the team as well. Just a bit less than half of last year’s roster have left, and only four starters remain from the national championship lineup. Players have left for numerous reasons, whether it was personal, having a bigger role on another team, getting more NIL money somewhere else, or having graduated. Leaving the current team left out to dry.
This season, the Wolverines currently have a 7-5 record, leaving fans deflated and disappointed. “It’s like we’re watching a completely different team,” said Noah Silkworth (‘25). “The spark, the passion, it’s all just… gone.”
Many fans have noticed a lack of chemistry among the players, likely a consequence of the roster shake-ups, lack in quarterback play, and Coach Harbaugh’s recent departure. “I don’t see the same drive on the field; they look lost out there,” says Ben Solomon (‘25).
While last season brought electrifying crowds and unforgettable memories, this year’s games have felt like a chore for some. “I used to feel excited just walking into the stadium,” said longtime Michigan fan Parker Miller (‘25) “Now, I’m just hoping we don’t lose by too much.”
So, what’s next for Michigan football? Fans are hoping the offseason brings a much-needed reset, (as it is impossible to make any big changes in season). “I think we just need to start fresh,” said Colton Swan (25’). “New leadership, new energy, something that brings back the pride we all felt last year.”
Even with the recent struggles, some fans are still thinking on the bright side, pointing to the team’s history of resilience as the winningest team in college football history. “Michigan always bounces back eventually,” says Miller.
For the sake of the school, the fans’ sanity, and the program’s legacy, Michigan fans are hoping the Wolverines can rediscover their winning ways. The Michigan Wolverines final game against the Alabama Crimson Tide is on December 31st, 2024, with a prime-time kickoff of 12:00 pm.
