Sugar Bowl Final- Michigan Wolverines 23 Virginia Tech 20 (OT)

It wasn’t the greatest season in the storied history of Michigan Football.

Losses to instate rival Michigan State and Iowa, prevented the Michigan Wolverines from winning the Big Ten title and returning to the glory of the Rose Bowl.

But it may have been the most surprising and joyous season since the Wolverines went undefeated and the won the 1998 National Championship.

A year ago the program was floundering, having been spanked in the Gator Bowl losing to Mississippi State by a score of 52-14.

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It seems like a million years ago.

Prior to the game, Brady Hoke was rumored to be on the short list to take over if Rich Rodriguez was fired.

I couldn’t believe it. Now after an unbelievable year, that saw the Wolverines finish 11-2 I wonder how I ever doubted him.

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From day 1 he said and did all the right things.

He won over a jaded group of players many of whom were fiercely loyal to the outgoing coaching staff.

He preached the gospel of being a Michigan Man, of being responsibility to your teammates and honor.

He brought back former Wolverine Coach Greg Mattison to be defensive coordinator to resurrect a moribund defense that was among the worst in the nation. Last season former Buckeye and TV commentator Chris Speilman called the players on Michigan defense guys “…who would be nice little subs at Indiana.” This season a defense made up primarily of the same players returned to playing Michigan football terrorized opponents.

The Michigan Wolverines capped an amazing turnaround season with a 23-20 (OT) BCS Sugar Bowl Victory over Virginia Tech.

Those who stay will be Champions!

Bo would be proud.

What a ride.

GO BLUE!