It has been a long time coming. The Michigan Wolverines fan base has been waiting for what seems like 100 years. But, 2021 has been the year, the Wolverines finally got over the hump and soundly beat Ohio State 42-27. Not only did that change the perception Jim Harbaugh could not beat a top team, it also changed the perception of would be recruits.
Jim Harbaugh’s 2022 recruiting class has been nationally praised. The Ohio State Buckeyes had been used to getting whichever recruit they wanted. That came to a grinding halt with the Michigan win on the gridiron. Sure Ohio State had a nice recruiting class, Michigan had a better one.
This is something to keep an eye on going forward. Not only has Harbaugh and the Wolverines caught Ohio State on the field but just as importantly off of it as well. In fact Michigan flipped a four-star recruit from going to Ohio State.
The fact that Jim Harbaugh figured Ohio State out on the field is not a surprise. It was only a matter of time. Good coaches figure it out even if it takes some time. What should concern Ohio State is that the schools biggest rival has also figured out a way to keep high profile recruits from going to Columbus.
There is a clear shift taking place. Ohio State has had a long run at or near the top of the Big Ten Conference. Michigan has now caught up to the Buckeyes. One other notable observation about the Wolverines recruits is that Harbaugh focused on offensive and defensive linemen.
Sure, Michigan landed some high profile skill position players. But, Harbaugh took a page out of former NFL legendary head coach and Hall of Fame member, Bill Parcells book when he continued to build both the offensive and defensive lines.
That, if you recall that is exactly how Michigan beat Ohio State. The Michigan offensive line punished the Buckeye’s defensive front, while the defensive line was harassing the Ohio State quarterback for all four quarters.
Jim Harbaugh and his Michigan Wolverines football team have caught Ohio State on and off the field. Winning will do that for you.
