2021 Michigan Football Awards and Honors
12/16/2021 1:09:00 PM | Football
• Hutchinson Named Co-Recipent of Mayo Clinic Comeback POY (12/21/2021)
• Hutchinson Leads Trio of Wolverines Named Academic All-Americans (12/15/2021)
• Hutchinson Wins 2021 Lott Impact Trophy (12/12/2021)
• Hutchinson Finishes Second in Heisman Trophy Balloting (12/11/2021)
• Harbaugh Named Associated Press Coach of the Year (12/10/2021)
• Hutchinson Named Ted Hendricks Award Winner, FWAA First Team All-American (12/12/2021)
• Hutchinson Named 2021 Chicago tribune Silver Football Winner (12/10/2021)
• Moody Becomes Michigan's First-Ever Lou Groza Award Winner (12/9/2021)
• Hutchinson Wins Rotary Lombardi Award (12/8/2021)
• Gattis Named Winner of 2021 Broyles Award (12/7/2021)
• Haskins, McNamara, Offensive Line Lead Charge for All-Big Ten Offensive Honors (12/1/2021)
• Hutchinson, Moody Lead Wolverines Honored with B1G Defensive, Special Teams Awards (11/30/2021)
Jim Harbaugh (Dec. 16)
George Munger Collegiate Coach of the Year Semifinalist -- Head coach Jim Harbaugh of the No. 2-ranked University of Michigan football program was named one of 15 semifinalists for the George Munger Collegiate Coach of the Year, the Maxwell Football Club announced. This season, Harbaugh has led the Wolverines to a 12-1 record and the program's first Big Ten Championship since 2004. U-M defeated its rival Ohio State in late November to win the Big Ten East division, then defeated Iowa in the conference title game earlier this month. Under Harbaugh, five Wolverines have secured All-American distinction including consensus picks Aidan Hutchinson (defensive end) and Jake Moody (kicker). Harbaugh has helped the Wolverines reach the College Football Playoff for the first time in program history, as the team gets set to face Georgia in the Capital One Orange Bowl (Dec. 31).
Aidan Hutchinson (Dec. 9)
Mayo Clinic Comeback Player of the Year Semifinalist -- Senior defensive end Aidan Hutchinson suffered a season-ending ankle injury early in the 2020 season which greatly impacted the Wolverines' defense. The Plymouth, Mich., native returned this season to his pre-injury level of performance, was voted a captain again and had an outstanding 2021 season. He set the Michigan single-season sack record with 14 and had a career-best three sacks twice -- at Penn State (Nov. 13) and again in the Wolverines' Big Ten East Division title-clinching win against Ohio State (Nov. 27). Hutchinson helped lead Michigan to the 2021 Big Ten Championship, the program's 43rd in school history, defeating Iowa 42-6 on Dec. 4. Thus far, Hutchinson has 58 tackles (15.5 for loss) two forced fumbles, one fumble return, three pass breakups and 10 quarterback hurries. Hutchinson is one of nine semifinalists, with winners of the award to be recognized at a special ceremony during the Fiesta Bowl on Jan. 1, 2022. » CoSIDA Release
Aidan Hutchinson (Nov. 30)
Lott IMPACT Trophy Semifinalist -- Defensive end Aidan Hutchinson was named one of eight semifinalists for the Lott IMPACT Trophy by the Pacific Club IMPACT Foundation. IMPACT stands for Integrity, Maturity, Performance, Academics, Community, and Tenacity, embodying the traits of NFL Hall of Famer Ronnie Lott. Hutchinson is one of two Big Ten representatives on the list (George Karalaftis, Purdue). Recently named the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year and Defensive Lineman of the Year, Hutchinson broke the single-season sack record by reaching 13 after a three-sack game against Ohio State. The defensive captain has totaled 54 tackles (32 solo) including 14.5 for loss to go with three pass breakups, two forced fumbles, and one recovered. Hutchinson was a two-time Lott IMPACT Player of the Week. Four finalists will be invited to attend the 18th Annual Lott IMPACT Trophy Award Show in Newport Beach, Calif., on Dec. 12, where a winner will be named. » Lott IMPACT Trophy Release
Aidan Hutchinson, Hassan Haskins (Nov. 30)
Maxwell Football Club Offensive, Defensive Players of the Week -- Seniors Aidan Hutchinson (defensive end) and Hassan Haskins (running back) continued to reel in awards on Tuesday, ah they were named the Maxwell Football Club Defensive and Offensive Players of the Week, respectively. Hutchinson (5-2-7 tackles) led a stout defensive effort with three sacks, breaking the U-M single-season record during the game. Haskins ran for 169 yards and a record five touchdowns (tied-most single-game at U-M, most ever against an OSU team) to lead the offense. It was a historic win for Michigan and helped seal the team's Big Ten East Division title.
Hassan Haskins (Nov. 29)
Rose Bowl Game Big Ten Player of the Week -- Running back Hassan Haskins was recognized on Monday as the Rose Bowl Game Big Ten Player of the week following his career day against Ohio State. Haskins had 169 yards on 28 carries with five touchdowns, tying the Michigan single-game touchdown record and becoming the first-ever player to record five rushing scores against OSU. His efforts helped U-M clinch a spot in the Big Ten Championship game as the East Division Champions.
J. Ira and Nicki Harris Family Head Football Coach Jim Harbaugh (Nov. 29)
Dodd Trophy Coach of the Week -- Officials from the Bobby Dodd Coach of the Year Foundation and Peach Bowl, Inc. announced on Monday that Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh was named the Dodd Trophy Coach of the Week presented by PNC following the team's victory over the Ohio State Buckeyes (Nov. 27). Against OSU, U-M scored its most points in the rivalry since 1946 (42), recorded its largest margin of victory since 1993 (15 points), and registered its most rushing yards (297) since 1995, and its most total yards (487) since 2013. The team also limited Ohio State to 64 yards rushing, its lowest total of the season, while recording four sacks on OSU quarterback CJ Stroud. Aidan Hutchinson (3.0 sacks) had more sacks than any team had recorded against the Buckeyes all season. The win clinched a Big Ten East title for the Wolverines as well as a trip to Indianapolis to play in the Big Ten Championship Game. The Dodd Trophy Coach of the Week award honors a football coach who led his team to a significant victory during the previous week, while also embodying the award's three pillars of scholarship, leadership, and integrity.
Aidan Hutchinson, Hassan Haskins (Nov. 28-29)
Walter Camp Football Foundation, Big Ten Offensive and Defensive Players of the Week -- Senior defensive end Aidan Hutchinson and senior running back Hassan Haskins were each recognized by the Walter Camp Football Foundation and the Big Ten Conference as the organization's player of the week on their respective side of the ball. Hutchinson won the defensive honor following his three-sack performance against the Buckeyes of Ohio State (Nov. 27). Hutchinson's sacks were all solos and gave him possession of the single-season sack record at Michigan (13.0), passing his father's top season (11.0, 1992) in the process. Hutchinson contributed seven total tackles (five solos) to the victory which saw U-M limit the Buckeyes to under 100 rushing yards for just the second time this season. On the offensive side, Haskins registered his third 150-yard rushing game in the last four weeks, totaling 169 yards on 28 carries with five touchdowns. He matched a Michigan program record with those five touchdowns in one game and also climbed into a tie for No. 2 all-time single-season rushing touchdowns (18). Prior to Saturday (Nov. 27), no player had ever scored five rushing touchdowns in a single game against the Buckeyes in their program's history. This marks just the second time (2004, Syracuse) that two players from the same team swept the offensive and defensive honors. This is the first Big Ten honor for Hutchinson and Haskins both.
Team Honors (Nov. 29)
Cheez-It Bowl National Team of the Week -- The University of Michigan Football team was honored as the Cheez-It Bowl National Team of the Week following the team's 49-27 victory over the Ohio State Buckeyes (Nov. 27). The Wolverines played a thorough game in all three phases and doubled up the Buckeyes in the second half (28-14). U-M scored its most points against OSU since 1946 (42), with its largest margin of victory since 1993 (15 points), its most rushing yards (297) since 1995, and its most total yards (487) since 2013. The Wolverines were led by Hassan Haskins who tied the U-M single-game record for rushing touchdowns (169 yards, five touchdowns), the first player with five scores on the ground against OSU in the history of the program. Defensively, Aidan Hutchinson (3.0 sacks) led the effort as OSU was held under 100 yards rushing for the second time all year and scored its fewest points in the rivalry since 2012; its fewest in a loss since 2009. Hutchinson's three sacks were more than any other team had achieved against the Buckeyes all season. As Big Ten East Division Champions, the Wolverines have earned the right to travel to Indianapolis to play in the conference title game.
Hassan Haskins (Nov. 28)
CFPA National Performer of the Week -- Running back Hassan Haskins was named the College Football Performance Awards (CFPA) National Performer of the Week. Haskins earns the honor following his 169-yard, five-touchdown day against the Buckeyes. Haskins has scored 18 touchdowns this season, one shy of the single-season record at Michigan, and has 1,232 rushing yards through 12 games averaging more than 5.0 per carry. Against Ohio State, Haskins went over 150 rushing yards for the third time in the last four weeks and he also accomplished something no player in college football history had prior to Saturday (Nov. 27) by scoring five times on the ground against the OSU defense.
Michigan Offensive Line (Nov. 23)
Joe Moore Award Semifinalist -- The Michigan offensive line was recognized as one of 13 semifinalist units for the 2021 Joe Moore Award, the Foundation for Teamwork announced. The award has been presented annually since 2015 and is given to the top offensive line unit in college football. The Wolverines lead the nation in fewest tackles for loss allowed (2.18 per game) and rank fifth in sacks allowed (0.81 per game). On 403 carries by non-quarterbacks, U-M ball carriers have lost just 15 yards all season. The unit has produced a 1,000-yard rusher in Hassan Haskins and a balanced offensive attack that faces stacked boxes regularly and still has produced to the tune of 28 rushing touchdowns and 6.3 yards per play. The offensive line is coached by co-offensive coordinator Sherrone Moore in his first year leading the unit and his fourth year at Michigan. Captain Andrew Vastardis (center), alternate captain Andrew Stueber (right tackle) and Ryan Hayes (left tackle) have started all 11 games for the 10-1 Wolverines. Zak Zinter (right guard) has made nine starts with Trevor Keegan (eight) and Chuck Filiaga (four) also filling in at the guard spots. Tackles Karsen Barnhart (two) and Trente Jones (one) have also made starts for the unit this season. U-M represents one of four Big Ten programs on the semifinalist list (Michigan State, Ohio State, Wisconsin), and this is the Wolverines' first time appearing on the semifinalist list. » Joe Moore Award Release
Josh Gattis (Nov. 23)
Broyles Award Semifinalist -- Sanford Robertson Offensive Coordinator and wide receivers coach Josh Gattis was selected as one of 15 semifinalists for the Broyles Award, which honors college football's top assistant coaches. Gattis has directed an offense which ranks top-30 nationally in seven areas including scoring offense (15th), red zone offense (10th) and total offense (23rd). The Wolverines are scoring 36.7 points per contest under Gattis and have recorded 53 plays on offense of 20-plus yards, including 10 touchdowns of 50-plus yards. Under Gattis, the team has a 1,000-yard rusher in Hassan Haskins, and 14 different players have scored on offense this season while the team has lost only eight turnovers (sixth, NCAA). The offense has produced four passing plays of 70-plus yards this season, more than the previous seven seasons combined (three). This is Gattis' first appearance on the Broyles Award semifinalist list, and it is his third year directing the Michigan offense.
Aidan Hutchinson (Nov. 15)
Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week, Reese's Senior Bowl Defensive Player of the Week, Rose Bowl Game Player of the Week -- Defensive end Aidan Hutchinson was recognized by Big Ten Conference and the Reese's Senior Bowl scouting staff as the Defensive Player of the Week following his outstanding performance at Penn State (Nov. 13) last weekend. He was also chosen as the Rose Bowl Game Big Ten Player of the Week. Hutchinson had a career-high 3.0 sacks and one forced fumble among seven total tackles to help Michigan beat the Nittany Lions on the road, while the defense as a whole had seven sacks and 11 TFLs. Hutchinson is tied with teammate David Ojabo for the Big Ten lead in sacks (10.0) as both approach the U-M single-season record (12.0). He is in the midst of one of the best seasons by a defensive player in recent Michigan history, and has helped the Wolverine defense to several impressive national ranks through 10 games, including sixth in scoring defense (16.0 points per game) and total defense (298.1 yards per game). It is Hutchinson's first honor from the Big Ten and Rose Bowl Football Committee this fall and his second from the Reese's Senior Bowl staff. » Big Ten Release
Josh Gattis (Nov. 15)
Broyles Award Nominee -- University of Michigan co-offensive coordinator and wide receivers coach Josh Gattis was named by the Frank and Barbara Broyles Foundation as one of 59 FBS assistant coaches to be nominated for the 2021 Broyles Award, which honors college football's top assistant coaches. Now in his third season at the University of Michigan, Gattis has directed the Wolverines' offense to achieve top-30 national rankings in six areas, including the No. 2 scoring offense in the Big Ten at 34.7 points per game. The offense has one back on the verge of 1,000 rushing yards in Hassan Haskins (985) and Blake Corum (778) is also in striking range, while nine different pass-catchers have caught touchdowns for an offense that totals more than 440 yards per game, on average. U-M has protected the ball (just eight turnovers lost, 10th NCAA) and quarterback Cade McNamara (fewest sacks and tackles for loss allowed in the Big Ten) under Gattis' direction this season. This is his first nomination for the Broyles Award at Michigan.
Cade McNamara (Nov. 15)
College Football Performance Awards Midseason Watch List -- Quarterback Cade McNamara was named to the College Football Performance Awards Midseason Watch List, which includes 36 players from across the country. McNamara's honor comes on the heels of a road win over Penn State (Nov. 13) that saw him throw three touchdown passes on 19-of-29 passing for 217 yards. McNamara has a 12:2 touchdown-to-interception ratio on the season and has helped the U-M offense rank top-30 nationally in six categories, with the Big Ten's No. 2 scoring offense (34.7 points per game). McNamara has helped guide the team to a 9-1 record while the offense has averaged nearly five plays of 20-plus yards per game (49 total). This is his first recognition from the CFPA.
Brad Robbins (Nov. 10)
Ray Guy Award Semifinalist -- Punter Brad Robbins was selected as one of 10 Ray Guy Award semifinalists. The Ray Guy Award honors the nation's best collegiate punter and is presented by the Augusta Sports Council. Robbins is putting together one of the best seasons in Michigan punting history, with a nine-game average (44.8 yards) that would rank third all-time for a year-long single-season mark. Robbins has allowed 21 total return yards on 28 punts, forcing a fair catch more often than not (16) while directing one of the top punt coverage units in the country. The Ray Guy Award winner is selected by a voting body of FBS sports information directors, national media, and former Ray Guy Award winners. The award's three finalists will be announced on November 23 and the winner will be named at The Home Depot College Football Awards broadcast. » Ray Guy Award Release
Jake Moody (Nov. 8)
Lou Groza Star of the Week -- For the second time in the month of November, Jake Moody was chosen as a Lou Groza Star of the Week by the Palm Beach County Sports Commission. The honor comes after Moody's 11-point game against Indiana (Nov. 6) which saw him overtake the national lead for kick scoring (96 points). He is the No. 3 scorer in the NCAA overall and the only kicker in the top-five with an average of 10.7 points per contest. Against Indiana, Moody converted on field goals of 32, 32, and 34 yards, giving him the second-highest made field goal total (17) in the nation with the highest accuracy rate (91.3 percent) of any kicker with more than 15 makes. He is 17-of-17 inside 40 yards this season. Moody has already been named a semifinalist for the Lou Groza Award.
Jake Moody (Nov. 4)
Lou Groza Award Semifinalist -- Senior kicker Jake Moody was recognized on Thursday as one of 20 semifinalists for the Lou Groza Collegiate Place-Kicker Award, presented annually to the top place-kicker in the nation. Moody is second among all kickers in made field goals (18) and field goals per game (2.25), going 18-for-20 on the season through eight games. He has a team-high 85 points, which makes him the No. 9 NCAA scorer in points per game. Moody has been recognized twice this season for weekly awards. He was Big Ten Special Teams Player of the Week after the win at Nebraska and won a Lou Groza Awards Star of the Week after the Michigan State game. Heading into the game against Indiana, Moody is eighth in Michigan history in career field goals made (35), seven behind former teammate Quinn Nordin and the top-five all-time. A panel of more than 100 FBS head coaches, SIDs, media members, former award finalists, and current NFL kickers will select three finalists to be announced Nov. 23.
Andrew Vastardis (Nov. 2)
Burlsworth Trophy Nominee -- Graduate student offensive lineman Andrew Vastardis was recognized as a nominee for the 2021 Burlsworth Trophy, now in its 12th season. The trophy is given to the most outstanding football player in America who began his career as a walk-on and has shown outstanding performance on the field. Each nominee must have begun his first season of participation with an FBS (Division I) program without financial aid of any kind from the university's athletic department. Vastardis is U-M's nominee as he began his career as a walk-on before finally earning a scholarship prior to the 2019 season. Vastardis grew into the starting center role on the 2020 team and is in his second season as a team captain with 25 career games played and 12 starts. He leads the nation's No. 7 rushing attack (239 yards per game) and has twice been the team's Hard Hat Player of the Week. U-M's offensive line leads the NCAA in sacks allowed and tackles for loss allowed. The Burlsworth Trophy award ceremony to honor the three finalists and to announce the 2021 winner will be held on Dec. 6 in Bentonville, Ark. » Burlsworth Trophy Release
Aidan Hutchinson (Nov. 1)
Bednarik Award Semifinalist -- Senior defensive end Aidan Hutchinson was named one of 18 semifinialists for the 2021 Chuck Bednarik Award on Monday. The Award goes to the College Football Defensive Player of the Year. Hutchinson is tied for the Big Ten lead with 7.0 sacks (t-13th, NCAA) among his 30 tackles, 18 of which are solo stops. Hutchinson has 7.5 TFLs overall, with five quarterback hurries, two pass breakups, one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery. He has been the driving force behind a defense that ranks top-20 in six major categories including No. 10 in scoring defense. » Bednarik Award
Andrel Anthony (Nov. 1)
Co-Big Ten Freshman of the Week -- First-year wide receiver Andrel Anthony was recognized by the Big Ten for his outstanding performance against the Michigan State Spartans last weekend (Oct. 30), and was named the Co-Big Ten Freshman of the Week. A native of East Lansing, Anthony caught six passes for 155 total yards with two touchdowns, the No. 3 performance all-time against MSU in terms of receiving yards. The true freshman opened the scoring in his hometown with a 93-yard touchdown, the longest play from scrimmage in the history of the series and the second-longest pass play in program history. It was his first career reception, the longest first-ever catch by a Wolverine. This is the first career honor from the Big Ten for Anthony, and the fifth by a Wolverine this season. » Big Ten Release
Jake Moody (Nov. 1)
Lou Groza Star of the Week -- Following a 15-point effort at Michigan State (Oct. 30), senior kicker Jake Moody was named a Lou Groza Star of the Week on Monday by the Palm Beach County Sports Commission. Moody connected on field goals of 26, 38, 35, and 36 yards and also converted on all three of his PATs for 15 total points and upped his scoring average to 10.6 points per game. Moody is 18-of-20 on field goals for the season with the second-most made FG in the NCAA. He has 85 points on the season and is 31-of-31 on PATs. This is his first honor from the Palm Beach County Sports Commission.
Blake Corum (Oct. 25)
Paul Hornung Award Honor Roll -- Sophomore running back Blake Corum was named to the Paul Hornung Award Honor Roll after the team's win over Northwestern. The Paul Hornung Award recognizes the most versatile player in major college football each year. Corum rushed for a team-high 119 yards on 19 carries with two touchdowns in the victory, adding 23 receiving yards on four receptions. He also had an 18-yard kickoff return, totaling 160 all-purpose yards on 24 total touches. Through seven contests, Corum ranks fourth in the NCAA and first in the Big Ten in all-purpose yards per game (160.0 yards per game) with 11 total touchdowns (10 rushing). » Paul Hornung Award Release
Andrew Vastardis, Jim Harbaugh (Oct. 21)
Wuerffel Trophy Nominee -- Graduate student offensive lineman Andrew Vastardis has been recognized as a nominee for the Wuerffel Trophy, known as college football's premier award for community service. The award honors college football players who serve others, celebrate their positive impact on society, and inspire greater service in the world. A team-voted captain, Vastardis is the anchor of U-M's top-rated offensive line which leads the Big Ten and ranks first or second in the NCAA in tackles for loss and sacks allowed. That unit has helped spark the country's No. 7-ranked rushing attack as well. Among other accomplishments and contributions, Vastardis was integral in setting up recurring service opportunities for student-athletes through the V.A. Veteran's Hospital in Ann Arbor, beginning in 2019. » Wuerffel Trophy Release
Dodd Trophy Midseason Watch List -- J. Ira and Nicki Harris Family Head Football Coach Jim Harbaugh was recognized as one of 16 coaches to be named to the midseason edition of the Dodd Trophy Watch List. Harbaugh has led the Wolverines to a 6-0 start and No. 6 ranking in the Associated Press Poll, marking the second 6-0 start under his tenure and the sixth since 1980. U-M ranks first or second in the Big Ten (and top-15 nationally) in rushing offense, scoring offense, sacks and tackles for loss allowed, red zone offense and turnovers. The Maize and Blue also is top-four in the Big Ten (and top-25 nationally) in scoring defense, total defense, passing defense and first downs allowed. » Dodd Trophy Release
Aidan Hutchinson (Oct. 20)
Lott IMPACT Trophy Quarterfinalist -- Senior defensive end Aidan Hutchinson has been named one of 20 quarterfinalists for the Lott IMPACT Trophy by the Pacific Club IMPACT Foundation. Now in its 18th year, the Lott IMPACT Trophy goes to the student-athlete who best exhibits the characteristics of Ronnie Lott by making an IMPACT on and off the field (IMPACT stands for Integrity, Maturity, Performance, Academics, Community, and Tenacity). Hutchinson, who leads the Big Ten in sacks and ranks No. 12 in the NCAA (5.5), has led the U-M defense to a stellar first half of the season in his second year as a team captain. He has totaled 24 tackles (17 solo) with six tackles for loss, three quarterback hurries, and one forced fumble after returning this season from a lower-body injury that cut his 2020 campaign short. Hutchinson was the Lott IMPACT Trophy player of the week after U-M's week two win over Washington. Semifinalists for the award will be named in late November with the four finalists in December, and the winner named Dec. 12, 2021. » Lott IMPACT Trophy Release
Michigan Offensive Line (Oct. 19)
Joe Moore Award Midseason Honor Roll -- The University of Michigan offensive line was selected as one of 19 units to be named to the Joe Moore Award midseason honor roll. The Joe Moore Award is awarded annually to the most outstanding offensive line unit in college football. Michigan's group is among the nation's best this season, allowing just two sacks (No. 2 in the NCAA) on 408 offensive snaps with the nation's lowest rate of tackles for loss allowed per game (2.17 average). Both figures are Big Ten-leading marks. U-M also is the top rushing team in the Big Ten and No. 7 in the NCAA at 246.5 yards per game. The unit is led by center and captain Andrew Vastardis, tackles Andrew Stueber (co-captain) and Ryan Hayes, and three different players who have earned starts at guard this season: Trevor Keegan, Zak Zinter, and Chuck Filiaga. The group is coached by Sherrone Moore in his first year working with the unit. Semifinalists will be named on Nov. 16 with finalists chosen Dec. 7.
Aidan Hutchinson (Oct. 13)
Rotary Lombardi Award Semifinalist -- Senior defensive end Aidan Hutchinson was named as one of 12 semifinalists for the Rotary Lombardi Award, presented annually in conjunction with the Rotary Club of Houston to college football's best offensive or defensive lineman. In addition to outstanding performance and ability, this individual must exemplify the character and discipline of NFL Hall of Fame head coach Vince Lombardi. A team-voted captain, Hutchinson has been the leader of the No. 9-ranked scoring defense with 24 tackles (17 solo) including six for loss with 5.5 sacks and one forced fumble. He ranks second in the Big Ten and 13th nationally in average sacks per game. Hutchinson returned to U-M for his senior season after an injury shortened his 2020 season. He has been named Pro Football Focus National Defensive Player of the Week in consecutive weeks after wins at Wisconsin (Oct. 2) and Nebraska (Oct. 9). The four finalists for the Rotary Lombardi Award will be named on Nov. 9.
Brad Hawkins and Jake Moody (Oct. 11)
Big Ten Players of the Week -- Two Wolverines were honored as co- or outright Big Ten Players of the Week on the heels of U-M's 32-29 victory at Nebraska. Safety Brad Hawkins was named the league's co-Defensive Player of the Week following a five-tackle day (four solo) with one tackle for loss, but Hawkins' highlight was a fumble he forced off Nebraska quarterback Adrian Martinez with less than two minutes remaining. That was the first fumble recovery of Hawkins' career and his second forced fumble. It set up the game-winning field goal, a 39-yarder from kicker Jake Moody, who was recognized as the Big Ten's Special Teams Player of the Week. Moody was four-of-four on field goals, hitting from 21, 31, 35, and 39 yards, and delivered touchbacks on all eight of his kickoffs. Moody has registered double-digit scoring efforts in two straight games. It is the first career Big Ten honor for Hawkins, who is the second Wolverine to win the honor in October (David Ojabo, Oct. 4), and the second for Moody (Nov. 19, 2019) though his first outright. » Big Ten Release
Brad Robbins (Oct. 11)
Ray's 8 Awards -- For the second week in a row, punter Brad Robbins was selected as one of eight honorees for the Ray's 8 for week six games. This is Robbins' second career honor from the Ray Guy Award Committee, and he was named to the award's watch list in the preseason. Robbins punted four times for 203 total yards with a 57-yard long at Nebraska last weekend. In addition to pinning three punts inside the 20-yard line (including one at the six-yard line), he generated an outstanding 50.8-yard net average. Robbins forced three fair catches and knocked one punt out of bounds to allow zero return yards. On the season, he has allowed just 12 return yards on 19 total punts. He is averaging 45.1 yards per punt on the season with 10 inside the opponent's 20. Robbins is up for Punter of the Week to be announced on Tuesday (Oct. 12). Fans can vote for Robbins at the Ray Guy Award Site.
Aidan Hutchinson, Andrew Vastardis (Oct. 6)
Senior CLASS Award -- Senior defensive end Aidan Hutchinson and graduate student offensive lineman Andrew Vastardis were among 30 NCAA football student-athletes to be named as candidates for the 2021 Senior CLASS Award. CLASS stands for Celebrating Loyalty and Achievement for Staying in School, and the award goes to a Division I FBS senior or graduate student who excels in the areas of community, classroom, character and competition. The 30 candidates will be narrowed to 10 finalists later this season, and the winner will be announced in December. Both voted team captains for the second time in 2021, Hutchinson and Vastardis are two of seven candidates from the Big Ten Conference, and U-M is one of two schools with multiple representatives (Stanford). Hutchinson has 5.5 sacks through five games, while Vastardis helps lead the way for the nation's No. 7-ranked rushing attack. » Senior CLASS Award Release
Blake Corum (Oct. 6)
Maxwell Award Watch List -- Sophomore running back Blake Corum was added to the Maxwell Award Watch List. The award is presented annually to the top player in college football, and Corum is one of 10 midseason additions to the list. Corum has totaled 521 rushing yards, seven rushing touchdowns, 65 receiving yards, one receiving touchdown, and another 191 yards via kickoff returns through five games this season. Corum ranks No. 5 nationally with 155.4 all-purpose yards per game and has helped U-M be one of the top-scoring offenses in the nation. Semifinalists for the Maxwell Award will be announced on Nov. 1.
David Ojabo (Oct. 4)
Co-Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week -- Outside linebacker David Ojabo earned his first career Big Ten accolade when the conference announced he was Big Ten Co-Defensive Player of the Week. Ojabo's honor comes after his first career game leading the U-M defense in tackles with seven (four solo). Ojabo's day at Wisconsin (Oct. 2) included 2.5 sacks and a forced fumble. The 2.5 sacks mark a single-game career high and the first multi-sack game of Ojabo's career as well as the highest single-game sack total by any Wolverine since Josh Uche had 3.0 at Illinois (Oct. 25, 2019). Ojabo helped lead a defensive effort that limited the Badgers to 1.5 yards per carry rushing, the team's lowest output since 2015. Ojabo is up to 15 tackles so far this season (10 solo) with two forced fumbles and one recovery to go with 3.5 sacks. Ojabo is the first Wolverine to win Big Ten Player of the Week on defense since Aidan Hutchinson in 2019 (Oct. 27). » Big Ten Release
Brad Robbins (Oct. 4)
Ray's 8 Award -- Punter Brad Robbins was selected as one of eight honorees for the Ray's 8 for week five games. This is Robbins' first weekly honor from the Ray Guy Award Committee. Robbins punted four times for a total of 179 yards (44.75 net average) at Wisconsin (Oct. 2). Even more impressive, he pinned Wisconsin inside its own 20-yard line on three of his four attempts, including twice inside the 10, at the five- and six-yard lines. Robbins forced fair catches on all four punts and has allowed only 12 return yards on 15 total punts this season. He is averaging 43.6 yards per punt on the season with seven inside the opponent's 20 and a 59-yard long. With this weekly honor in tow, Robbins is up for Punter of the Week to be announced on Tuesday (Oct. 5). Fans can vote for Robbins at the Ray Guy Award site.
Aidan Hutchinson (Sept. 29)
Campbell Trophy Semifinalist -- Senior defensive end Aidan Hutchinson is one of 176 semifinalists for the 2021 William V. Campbell Trophy. Now in its 32nd year, the award recognizes an individual as the absolute best football scholar-athlete in the nation for his combined academic success, football performance, and exemplary leadership. The National Football Foundation will announce 12-14 finalists in November, and each will receive an $18,000 postgraduate scholarship as a member of the 2021 NFF National Scholar-Athlete Class. One winner will be chosen later this year and will have his postgraduate scholarship encrusted to $25,000. Hutchinson is a two-year captain for the Wolverines and was a third-team All-BIg Ten choice in 2019. Hutchinson is a two-time Academic All-Big Ten honoree (2019-20), Big Ten Distinguished Scholar (2019), and CoSIDA Academic All-District 5. He has amassed 5.5 sacks and 15 tackles in four starts this season. » NFF Release
Aidan Hutchinson (Sept. 21)
Mayo Clinic Comeback Player of the Year -- Senior defensive end Aidan Hutchinson was named as one of three candidates for the 2021 Mayo Clinic Comeback Player of the Year Award, the College Sports Information Directors of America announced. Hutchinson suffered a season-ending ankle injury in week three of the 2020 season, and returned to the Michigan lineup this fall in full form. He has 10 tackles (nine solo) so far in three weeks with 4.5 sacks and a forced fumble. Hutchinson joins University of Tulsa linebacker Yohance Burnett and Florida Atlantic University tight end John Mitchell. Ten times during the 2021 college football season, three inspiring student-athletes from all levels of college football who have overcome injury, illness, or other challenges are recognized with this honor. In December, three of the 30 nominees will be chosen as winners of the Mayo Clinic Comeback Player of the Year Award. » CoSIDA Relesase
Blake Corum (Sept. 13)
Big Ten Offensive Player of the Week, Paul Hornung Award Honor Roll, Rose Bowl Game Big Ten Player of the Week -- Sophomore running back Blake Corum was recognized by the Big Ten Conference as the Offensive Player of the Week after a standout performance in U-M's 31-10 win over Washington in week two (Sept. 11). He was also named to the Paul Hornung Award Honor Roll and was chosen as the Rose Bowl Game Big Ten Player of the Week. Corum totaled 171 rush yards on 21 carries with three touchdowns (all career highs) as part of Michigan's 343-yard output on the ground. He produced 231 all-purpose yards for his second 200-plus yard game to start the season, and he managed a career-long 67-yard run. Corum has helped buoy the U-M rushing attack to No. 4 in the nation (339.0 yards per game). This is Corum's first Big Ten honor and is the first Big Ten offensive award for a U-M player since Shea Patterson was co-POW twice in 2019 (Nov. 18, Nov. 25). » Big Ten Release
Aidan Hutchinson (Sept. 13)
Reese's Senior Bowl Defensive Player of the Week, Lott Trophy IMPACT Player of the Week -- Senior defensive end Aidan Hutchinson was recognized as the Reese's Senior Bowl Defensive Player of the Week and the Lott Trophy IMPACT Player of the Week following his standout performance in Michigan's 31-10 win over the Washington Huskies (Sept. 11). Hutchinson produced three tackles (all solos) with 2.0 sacks and one quarterback hurry. He led a defensive effort that totaled seven stops in the Huskies' backfield including four sacks. Hutchinson leads U-M in both categories with 3.0 so far this season. He has generated 14 negative yards for opponents and forced one fumble. » Lott IMPACT Trophy Release
Aidan Hutchinson (Sept. 8)
Ted Hendricks Award Watch List -- Senior defensive end Aidan Hutchinson was added to the initial watch list for the Ted Hendricks Award on Tuesday (Sept. 8), honoring the top defensive end in college football. The award values criteria such as: on-field performance, exceptional winning attitude, leadership abilities, contributions to school and community, and academic preparedness. In the opener against Western Michigan (Sept. 4), Hutchinson made four solo stops, one sack, a forced fumble, a pass breakup, and a quarterback hurry. He is a two-time team captain (2020-21), and was All-Big Ten in 2019 (third team, coaches; honorable mention, media). He made 15 tackles in three games of 2020 before injury shortened his season. Entering 2021, Hutchinson had recorded 68 career tackles including 10.5 for loss, 4.5 sacks, six pass breakups, four quarterback hurries, and two forced fumbles. He is also a two-time Academic All-Big Ten honoree (2019-20). » Hendricks Award Watch List
