The CFP Championship was set as Michigan played Washington on Jan, 8, at Houston, with the Wolverines coming out victorious 34-13.
The first quarter began with Michigan backup RB Donovan Edwards scoring two 40+ yard touchdowns and Washington scoring a field goal. The Washington QB Michael Penix Jr. threw a TD pass to Jalen McMillan in the second quarter, and Michigan scored a field goal. The first half ended with Michigan in the lead 17-10.
The second half was a disaster for Washington and its fans as Michigan RB Blake Corum scored 2 TD in the second half, with Michigan totaling 303 rushing yards and 4 TDs. The Michigan defense played a crucial role in this game with 2 interceptions to CBs Mike Sainristil and Will Johnson. Despite Washington’s best effort, Michigan won the National Championship.
“I think Michigan’s biggest key for the National Championship was their running because they managed to score four rushing TD,” freshman Jack Hajewski said. “Their defense was also a key role because they managed to have Washington score 13 points, with 2 interceptions.”
Before the game Michigan was picked as the underdog but many people believed they would win. “I knew Michigan would win because they have a great overall team and a good coaching staff,” junior Rudra Sharma said.
Going into the playoffs, these two teams were ranked number 1 and 2 with both teams going 12-0 in the regular season.
The four-team CFP began in the semi-finals when Alabama faced Michigan and Washington faced Texas. Michigan defeated Alabama 27-20 in OT, while Washington defeated Texas in a close game with a final score of 37-31.
“Although I had Washington winning the championship, I still want to congratulate Michigan because they played very well,” freshman Gabe Anderson said.
After the National Championship, many Michigan players have declared for the draft including QB J.J Mccarthy, CB Mike Sainristil, and RB Black Corum; all of whom played significant roles in the Wolverines’ defeat of Washington.
This year’s CFP ended with the unexpected news of Alabama head coach Nick Saban’s retirement after a successful 17 seasons, with his last game being played against the Wolverines in the CFP semi-finals, which ended in a loss.
