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Michigan Football: 5 Memorable season-opening wins for Wolverines

By Chris Peterson

26 Aug 1995: Offensive lineman Damon Denson of the Michigan Wolverines waves during a game against the Virginia Cavaliers at the Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Michigan won 18-17.. Mandatory Credit: Julian Gonzales /Allsport
26 Aug 1995: Offensive lineman Damon Denson of the Michigan Wolverines waves during a game against the Virginia Cavaliers at the Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Michigan won 18-17.. Mandatory Credit: Julian Gonzales /Allsport /
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(Photo by Aaron J. Thornton/Getty Images) /

Harbaugh, Michigan beat Notre Dame

As a head coach, Jim Harbaugh got his first win over Notre Dame last fall with a 45-14 trouncing of the Fighting Irish. But back in 1985, in the season opener, he helped the Wolverines score an important victory.

After a 6-6 season the year before, Michigan football entered 1985 unranked and Bo Schembechler was being criticized after a slew of mediocre seasons. Notre Dame was ranked 14th and was also facing questions.

At the half, Michigan trailed 9-3 but eventually, the Wolverines were able to battle back and overcome the Irish, thanks in large part to Jaime Morris rushing for 123 yards.

Harbaugh was just 7-for-7 passing for 74 yards. However, he scored the go-ahead rushing touchdown in the third quarter and on nine attempts, totaled 60 yards.

The win helped propel the Wolverines to a 10-1-1 season, although a loss to Iowa on the road prevented a trip to the Rose Bowl. Michigan beat Nebraska in the Fiesta Bowl and finished the season ranked fourth in the AP poll.

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