Aidan Hutchinson responds to Chase Young comparisons ahead of Heisman ceremony

For the second time in three seasons, a defensive player will be in New York City as a Heisman finalist. This season, it is Michigan defensive end Aidan Hutchinson, while Ohio State defensive end Chase Young attended back in 2019.

Hutchinson spoke with the media before Saturday’s ceremony and was asked what he thought about the comparison to Young. He said he had not thought too much of it and was focused on performing on the field.

“I guess I haven’t thought of Chase Young too much,” Hutchinson said on Friday. “The defensive end is a very game-changing position so I knew if I produced like I did, I would have a chance to come to New York.”

When comparing the two’s stats, they line up quite similarly.

Hutchinson – 58 tackles, 15.5 tackles for a loss, 14.0 sacks, two forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery

Young – 46 tackles, 21.0 tackles for a loss, 16.5 sacks, seven forced fumbles, and no fumble recoveries

The Ohio State product ended up finishing fourth in the Heisman voting in 2014, with LSU quarterback Joe Burrow eventually being the winner. No defensive player has won the award since Michigan’s Charles Woodson did so in 1997. The Wolverines will be looking to make history once again with Hutchinson.

Aidan Hutchinson makes bold proclimation

A lot of firsts have occurred this season for the Wolverines under head coach Jim Harbaugh, with a College Football Playoff appearance being one. Wins over Ohio State in the Big Ten Championship feature as well.

Hutchinson was reflecting on the Michigan season on Friday, saying it has been special moment after special moment. He even made a bold proclamation, saying their success has been good for the sport.

“This year has been full of special moments from the Nebraska game to the Wisconsin game. It’s always fun when you’re winning,” Hutchinson said. “College football is better when Michigan is winning, and when Michigan is up there at the top. And now we’re competing for the Playoff, Coach Harbaugh is Coach of the Year, we’re Big Ten Champions — I just think it’s good for college football, and it’s good to see a different color in the playoffs.”

Michigan and Hutchinson will have the opportunity to accomplish even more this season, facing off against the Georgia Bulldogs in the Orange Bowl on Dec. 31. It would be the Wolverines’ first national championship appearance in the BCS/College Football Playoff era.