Jim Harbaugh: Michigan cornerbacks Gemon Green, Ja'Den McBurrows 'as good as can be expected' after MSU tunnel assault
Two Michigan Wolverines football cornerbacks — graduate Gemon Green and sophomore Ja’Den McBurrows — were assaulted by groups of MSU players in the tunnel as they attempted to return to the locker room following the game, a 29-7 Michigan win. Four MSU players have been suspended, and investigations are ongoing as more details and accounts emerge.
Harbaugh said the experience was “traumatic” for the entire program and that he “can’t imagine” that the incidents won’t result in criminal charges. Green has reportedly retained noted attorney Tom Mars, who helped the eligibility waiver process of former Michigan quarterback Shea Patterson after his transfer from Ole Miss. Mars released a statement that revealed that Green sustained a concussion. A report from The Detroit News’ Angelique S. Chengelis also stated that Green is in protocol for a concussion and has a cut on the right side of his eye.
On his Monday night appearance on the Inside Michigan Football radio show, Harbaugh provided an update on both Green and McBurrows.
“As good as can be expected,” he said of their conditions. “They do have some injuries. And it’s traumatic for me to watch it, sickening to watch the videos, let alone the two young men that went through it and their families.”
RELATED
• News and Views: Harbaugh on new tunnel assault video, J.J. McCarthy, the red zone, and more
• Doug Karsch: From the broadcast booth
Michigan is balancing the process of recovering from the attacks but also preparing to play at Rutgers this Saturday night. It’s unlike anything Harbaugh has been through during his five decades involved with the sport.
“We’re just going through it now,” Harbaugh said. “That’s what we’re doing. It’s unprecedented, it’s uncharted waters.
Top 10
- 1Trending
8th year Cam Rising?
Utah QB could take medical redshirt for 8th season
- 2Hot
Sankey on Smart shove
SEC commish: Georgia HC should've been flagged
- 3
OU QB update
The Sooners decided on QB1
- 4
Gundy headbutted by cow
Mike Gundy forced to Zoom presser thanks to cow
- 5
Graham Mertz injury
Florida QB expected to miss remainder of season with knee injury
“I’m going to do my best today — that’s all we can do — and that’s all I ask the other guys. As a team, we support. We support Gemon and Ja’Den in every way possible.”
Michigan State committed two unsportsmanlike penalties during the game, but that was something the Wolverines were prepared for. Harbaugh said last week that it was emphasized to his team not to retaliate after the extra-curricular plays. But once the clock hit zero, real life began again. During the three-and-a-half hours of the competition is one thing, but an assault after the game is another, which is why the legal process is playing out.
Harbaugh provided some insight into how he and his coaching staff instruct their players to act off the field.
“In a first-class manner, and I think our guys do a tremendous job at that,” the Michigan coach said. “And that’s what we strive for — to do our best on the field on off, to treat others in a first-class manner, the way you would try to be treated.”
