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5 things we learned from Michigan football’s third straight Big Ten title

By Chris Peterson

Michigan offensive lineman Trevor Keegan and coach Jim Harbaugh after U-M's 26-0 win over Iowa in the Big Ten championship game on Saturday, Dec. 2, 2023, in Indianapolis.
Michigan offensive lineman Trevor Keegan and coach Jim Harbaugh after U-M's 26-0 win over Iowa in the Big Ten championship game on Saturday, Dec. 2, 2023, in Indianapolis. /
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Robert Goddin-USA TODAY Sports /

Mike Sainristil has a special place in Michigan football history

There are plenty of reasons why Michigan football was able to navigate the waters without Jim Harbaugh. One of the biggest was Mike Sainristil.

Sainristil intercepted two passes against Maryland, delivered a massive hit in a key moment against Ohio State, and forced two turnovers in the Big Ten championship game.

It seemed like every time Michigan needed a play, Mikey was there to make it. That goes back to last season with his epic pass breakup against Ohio State in the fourth quarter. Hell, dating back to 2021 when he caught the flea-flicker, this kid just shines when the lights are bright.

It was awesome to see him win Big Ten Championship Game MVP. I can’t wait to see where he’s drafted because this guy is going to shine in the NFL.

It’s crazy because Mikey has only played defensive back for two seasons, but he’s one of the best defensive backs in Michigan football history.

He’s not Charles Woodson, but down the stretch, he’s been playing like it and his statline is getting quite Woddson-like with 30 tackles, four tackles for loss, two sacks, six passes defended, five interceptions, two forced fumbles, and two touchdowns.

Mikey will need to keep playing that way for Michigan to win a national championship, but regardless, he will go down as one of the best big-game players the Wolverines have ever had.

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