Michigan sets date for annual spring football game

With the 2021 season — and, hopefully, rumors of Jim Harbaugh’s departure — in the past, Michigan can start looking ahead to 2022. It all starts with a spring game.

The Wolverines announced the spring game will be April 2 at Michigan Stadium. They plan to announce the start time and other information about the contest later.

It’s been quite an offseason for the Wolverines after their first College Football Playoff appearance. Notably, Harbaugh flirted with the NFL and even interviewed with the Minnesota Vikings on National Signing Day. He decided to stay, and Michigan announced a restructured contract this week.

Michigan had a turnaround season in 2021, going from a 2-6 record the year before to 12-1 before losing to Georgia in the Orange Bowl. The Wolverines now have to look to a future that doesn’t include star pass rushers Aidan Hutchinson and David Ojabo, who are both heading to the NFL via the draft.

Michigan, Jim Harbaugh agree to contract extension

Jim Harbaugh and Michigan have agreed to a new five-year contract that runs through 2026, the university announced Wednesday.

“Jim has done a great job coaching and developing the young men in our football program,” said Warde Manuel, the Donald R. Shepherd Director of Athletics. “Last season, Jim along with the staff and players delivered a memorable season that will remain with all of us for a long time. As Coach said, this is just the beginning. Academically, our program has been one of the best in the Big Ten and among the leaders across the country. We have graduated our players and they have been young men of great character who have done the right things. I have the utmost confidence in the direction of the program under Jim’s leadership.”

Harbaugh led Michigan to Michigan’s first Big Ten Championship since 2004 last season following a 42-3 victory over No. 12 Iowa. The Wolverines finished No. 3 in the final polls, its highest finish since 1997 and made their first appearance in the College Football Playoff. Despite losing to eventual national champion Georgia in the Orange Bowl, the future is bright for Harbaugh in Ann Arbor.

“I love Michigan Football, the University of Michigan and the Ann Arbor community,” said Harbaugh. “My family and I are excited to continue leading this football program, and we are thankful for the support that our athletic department and university administration have demonstrated toward the team. I appreciate all that our players, coaches and staff are doing to excel on and off the football field. My enthusiasm for tomorrow, the day after and every day following is as high as ever, and we are ready to get on the practice field and start preparations for the 2022 season. Go Blue!”