"Arr! Michigan's lad JJ McCarthy be showin' support fer Cap'n Harbaugh! Aye, loyalty be true 'n' fierce, mateys!"
2023-09-03
Arr, me mateys! The gallant J.J. McCarthy, the Michigan quarterback, didst lend his hearty support to the scallywag Jim Harbaugh, afore the mighty crew's triumphant 30-3 victory against East Carolina! Aye, 'twas a spectacle indeed!
Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy showed his support for suspended head coach Jim Harbaugh by wearing a "FREE Harbaugh" shirt before the game against East Carolina. Harbaugh is serving a three-game suspension for breaking NCAA rules. However, the team proved that they could succeed without their coach as McCarthy threw for 280 yards and three touchdowns in their 30-3 victory.After the game, McCarthy expressed his desire to have Harbaugh back, stating, "I just want my coach back, it's as simple as that." He also revealed that the team paid tribute to Harbaugh by lining up in a single-file formation and placing their arms over their helmets during their first drive.
Michigan running back Blake Corum led the team with 73 rushing yards and a touchdown, while Roman Wilson had six catches for 78 yards and all three of McCarthy's touchdowns. Defensive coordinator Jesse Minter stepped in as the acting head coach for the game, with offensive coordinator Sherrone Moore also serving a suspension for an NCAA rules violation.
Despite Harbaugh's absence, he was still involved in the team's preparations and helped with the game plan against East Carolina. Minter revealed that seeing Harbaugh the night before the game made it sink in that he wouldn't be coaching.
Overall, the Wolverines showed that they could overcome adversity and perform well even without their head coach. McCarthy's impressive performance and the team's tribute to Harbaugh demonstrated their unity and determination to succeed.