Jim Harbaugh's second season as Michigan's coach got off to a star-packed start against Hawaii. There were highlights on the field against a Warriors team one week separated from an Australian adventure, but also stars on the sidelines in the Big House.
Michael Jordan, for one, was on hand for the Wolverines' first football game as a Jordan brand team. Michigan's Jumpman era officially began this offseason, but the first game on the gridiron was big enough to bring out Jordan himself and noted Michigan fan Derek Jeter -- also a Jordan brand athlete.
Pregame at #Michigan. Which casually means Michael Jordan and Derek Jeter are here. pic.twitter.com/LOcnnEPXBT
— Kirk Nawrotzky (@KirkNawrotzky) September 3, 2016
When the stars align. Michael Jordan. Derek Jeter. Charles Woodson. LaMarr Woodley. pic.twitter.com/JRZ19B0Qrf
— Kirk Nawrotzky (@KirkNawrotzky) September 3, 2016
At halftime, the Michigan marching band even honored Jordan with the Jumpman logo on the field as part of the halftime show.
Michigan's band forms the @Jumpman23 logo with Michael Jordan in the house. pic.twitter.com/OEMFgKz5aG
— Brad Galli (@BradGalli) September 3, 2016
Before the game, Jim Harbaugh gave starting quarterback Wilton Speight the full, physical pregame treatment. It's a similar routine that we've seen from Harbaugh during his career, but the first time for Speight to catch all that intensity in the most crucial moments before taking the field.
There were also highlights on the field, as you might expect in a 63-3 win. The first highlight came from Jabrill Peppers, showcasing his incredible athleticism on this punt return that ended in an unreal hurdle. Unfortunately, the ball came back after a block in the back -- news that brought Peppers' victory celebration to a halt.
Jabrill Peppers is electrifying. Nuff said. pic.twitter.com/6DpvlHASPj
— Evan Petzold (@EvanPetzold) September 3, 2016
While much was made over the quarterback uncertainty, maybe not enough attention was paid to the group of pass catchers ready to make any Michigan quarterback look great. Jake Butt only had one catch in the blowout, a diving 19-yard touchdown grab, but at least it put points on the board.
And a big TD dive for @JBooty_88 for @UMichFootball.
— Michigan On BTN (@MichiganOnBTN) September 3, 2016
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