1977 Michigan Wolverines football team

American college football season February 2026 August 2023 1977 Michigan Wolverines football 1901-94 Michigan Wolverines Primary Logo.png Big Ten Conference Big Ten 8 9 10–2 7–1 Bo Schembechler 9th Bill McCartney 1st Russell Davis Walt Downing Dwight Hicks Michigan Stadium Big Ten co-champion Rose Bowl L Lost 20–27 vs. Washington The 1977 Michigan Wolverines football team was an American football team that represented the University of Michigan in the 1977 Big Ten Conference football season. In its ninth year under head coach Bo Schembechler, the team compiled a 10–2 record, tied with Ohio State for the Big Ten Conference championship, and outscored opponents by a total of 353 to 124. The Wolverines were ranked No. 1 in the AP Poll midway through the season but were upset by the unranked Minnesota Golden Gophers. In the final game of the regular season, Michigan beat No. 4 Ohio State but lost to No. 13 Washington in the 1978 Rose Bowl. In the final AP and UPI polls, Michigan was ranked No. 9 and No. 8, respectively.1977 Football Team University of Michigan, Bentley Historical Library January 4, 2020 https://bentley.umich.edu/athdept/football/fbteam/1977fbt.htm The team's statistical leaders included quarterback Rick Leach with 1,109 passing yards, fullback Russell Davis with 1,013 rushing yards, wing back Ralph Clayton with 393 receiving yards, and placekicker Gregg Willner with 49 points scored.1977 Michigan Wolverines Stats Sports Reference LLC SR/College Football January 5, 2019 https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/michigan/1977.html Davis was selected as the team's most valuable player. On defense, linebacker Ron Simpkins broke Michigan's single-season record with 158 total tackles (113 solo and 45 assists) during the regular season.Win lightens Bo's load The Michigan Daily Don MacLachlan November 22, 1977 8 https://digital.bentley.umich.edu/midaily/mdp.39015071754506/806 Bentley Historical Library He also sacked opposing quarterbacks 10 times and recovered five fumbles in 1977. In the final regular season game of the 1977 season, Simpkins had 20 tackles (15 solo) and recovered a fumble that set up the game-winning touchdown in Michigan's 14–6 victory over Ohio State.Michigan's Simpkins one that Woody lost The Tuscaloosa News (AP story) November 25, 1978 8 https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1817&dat=19781125&id=US8dAAAAIBAJ&sjid=A54EAAAAIBAJ&pg=6663,6296371&hl=en Three Michigan players received first-team honors on the 1977 All-America team: (1) offensive guard Mark Donahue (unanimous); (2) center Walt Downing; and (3) linebacker and punter John Anderson. Fourteen Wolverines received first- or second-team honors on the 1977 All-Big Ten Conference football team. Schedule 1977 AP Eastern September 10 w y 2 Illinois Memorial Stadium Champaign, IL rivalry 37–9 60,477 September 17 w y 1 Duke Michigan Stadium Ann Arbor, MI 21–9 104,072 September 24 w y 1 Navy Michigan Stadium Ann Arbor, MI 14–7 101,800 October 1 w y 3 Texas A&M 5 Michigan Stadium Ann Arbor, MI ABC 41–3 104,802 October 8 w y 3 Michigan State Spartan Stadium East Lansing, MI rivalry 24–14 78,183 October 15 w 1 Wisconsin 14 Michigan Stadium Ann Arbor, MI 56–0 104,892 October 22 l y 1 Minnesota Memorial Stadium Minneapolis, MN Little Brown Jug 0–16 44,165 October 29 w y 6 Iowa Michigan Stadium Ann Arbor, MI 23–6 104,617 November 5 w 6 Northwestern Michigan Stadium Ann Arbor, MI rivalry 63–20 103,211 November 12 w y 6 Purdue Ross–Ade Stadium West Lafayette, IN 40–7 68,003 November 19 w 5 Ohio State 4 Michigan Stadium Ann Arbor, MI The Game ABC 14–6 106,024 January 2, 1978 l y y 4 Washington 13 Rose Bowl Pasadena, CA Rose Bowl NBC 20–27 105,312 Season summary Preseason The 1976 Michigan Wolverines football team compiled a 10–2 record and was ranked No. 3 in the final AP and UPI polls. Michigan lost several starters from the 1976 team, including running back Rob Lytle, who finished third in the 1976 Heisman voting, flanker Jim Smith, and middle linebacker Calvin O'Neal, a consensus first-team All-American. In the spring of 1977, coach Schembechler publicly questioned whether the 1977 team could be as good as the 1976 team: "How many other teams lost 75 percent of the offense and seven of their 11 defensive starters?" His comment about 75 percent of the offense referred to Rob Lytle and Jim Smith who had a combined total of more than 2,400 rushing and receiving yards.No. 1 Rumor and Missing U-M Stars Keep Bo Busy in Spring Grid Drills Detroit Free Press Curt Sylvester April 7, 1977 4D https://www.newspapers.com/clip/41711775/no_1_rumor_and_missing_um_stars_keep/ Newspapers.com Key veterans returning from the 1976 team included quarterback Rick Leach and defensive end John Anderson (moved to linebacker in 1977). Another strength was an all-senior offensive line, including guards Mark Donahue and Gerry Szara, center Walt Downing, and tackles Mike Kenn and Bill Dufek. In August 1977, Coach Schembechler paraded the five linemen in front of the press and boasted: "That is probably the best interior line we've had since I've been here. They're all big, they can move and they're smart. They can make adjustments."Coach Bo Parades His Pride and Joy, U-M's Offensive Line Detroit Free Press Curt Sylvester August 21, 1977 1E, 2E https://www.newspapers.com/clip/41712515/coach_bo_parades_his_pride_and_joy/ Newspapers.com Dufek sustained a cracked fibula before the season started and was replaced by Jon Giesler.U-M's Dufek Out For Half Season Detroit Free Press August 28, 1977 1E https://www.newspapers.com/clip/41713418/ums_dufek_out_for_half_season/ Newspapers.com The 1977 season also saw major changes in the coaching staff. In December 1976, defensive coordinator Gary Moeller was hired as the head coach at Illinois.Bo Loses Coach To Illinois Detroit Free Press December 4, 1976 1C https://www.newspapers.com/clip/41713979/bo_loses_coach_to_illini/ Newspapers.com Less than two weeks later, offensive coordinator and offensive backfield coach Chuck Stobart was hired as head coach at Toledo.Surprise! Stobart Is Toledo Coach Detroit Free Press December 17, 1976 1D https://www.newspapers.com/clip/41714139/surprise_stobart_is_toledo_coach/ Newspapers.com Bill McCartney was promoted to take over Moeller's role as defensive coordinator, and Bowling Green head coach Don Nehlen was hired to replace Stobart as the offensive backfield coach.Bo Picks Nehlen to Fill Staff Detroit Free Press January 12, 1977 3D https://www.newspapers.com/clip/41715495/bo_picks_nehlen_to_fill_staff/ Newspapers.com The 1977 recruiting class included Kurt Becker, Andy Cannavino, B. J. Dickey, Stan Edwards, and Mike Trgovac.U-M Lists Football Freshman Detroit Free Press July 21, 1977 8D https://www.newspapers.com/clip/41713759/um_lists_football_freshmen/ Newspapers.com Illinois Week 1: Michigan at Illinois Michigan 13 7 10 7 Illinois 3 0 0 6 September 10 Champaign, IL 60,477 yes 1 ILL Dave Finzer 42-yard field goal ILL 3-0 1 MICH Ralph Clayton 30-yard pass from Rick Leach (Gregg Willner kick) MICH 7-3 1 MICH Harlan Huckleby 15-yard run (Willner kick failed) MICH 13-3 2 MICH Huckleby 3-yard run (Willner kick) MICH 20-3 3 MICH Willner 23-yard field goal MICH 23-3 3 MICH Gene Johnson 11-yard pass from Leach (Willner kick) MICH 30-3 4 MICH Russell Davis 4-yard run (Willner kick) MICH 37-3 4 ILL Clarence Baker 1-yard run (kick failed) MICH 37-9 yes On September 10, 1977, Michigan, ranked No. 2 in the AP Poll, defeated Illinois, 37-9, at Memorial Stadium in Champaign, Illinois, in a game matching Michigan coach Bo Schembechler against his former defensive coordinator, Gary Moeller. Moeller left Michigan to become Illinois' head coach in 1977.Mo vs. Bo show yields few surprises in end Bill Flick The Pantagraph September 11, 1977 B1 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/4421174/mo_vs_bo_show_yields_few_surprises/ The game attracted a crowd of 60,477, the largest opening day crowd in Illinois school history. Michigan dominated the Illini, rushing for 350 yards. Junior quarterback Rick Leach ran an option offense in which he kept the ball for 78 rushing yards and also completed six of 11 passes for 76 yards, including touchdown passes of 30 yards to Ralph Clayton and 11 yards to Gene Johnson. Running back Harlan Huckleby rushed for 128 yards and two touchdowns on 24 carries. Russell Davis added 99 yards and a touchdown on 18 carries. However, the Wolverines turned the ball over four times: a fumble by Huckleby on Michigan's first play from scrimmage, a fumbled punt return by Roosevelt Smith, and interceptions by Leach and backup quarterback John Wangler. The two fumbles set up the two Illini scores.What Big Test? It's U-M, 37-9 Curt Sylvester Detroit Free Press September 11, 1977 1E, 4E https://www.newspapers.com/clip/4421363/what_big_test_its_um_379/Michigan mauls Illinois, 37-9 The Michigan Daily John Niemeyer September 11, 1977 1, 10 https://digital.bentley.umich.edu/midaily/mdp.39015071754506/103 Bentley Historical Library On defense, Michigan allowing only 48 passing yards and 59 rushing yards on 38 attempts. Defensive back Mike Jolly had both an interception and a fumble recovery. Duke Week 2: Duke at Michigan Duke 0 0 6 3 Michigan 0 14 0 7 September 17 Ann Arbor, MI 104,072 yes 2 =MICH Leach 7-yard run (Gregg Willner kick) MICH 7-0 2 MICH R. Davis 4-yard run (Gregg Willner kick) MICH 14-0 3 DUKE Dunn 3-yard run (run failed) MICH 14-6 4 DUKE Walcott 43-yard field goal MICH 14-9 4 MICH Leach 7-yard run (Gregg Willner kick) MICH 21-9 yes On September 17, 1977, Michigan (ranked #1 in the AP Poll) defeated Duke, 21-9, in front of a crowd of 104,072 at Michigan Stadium. On the opening kickoff, Harlan Huckleby stepped across the goal line to the one-yard line, then stepped back, with the ball being marked down at the one-yard line. From there, Michigan was penalized for being offside and then for delay of game. Michigan did not score in the first quarter, but then scored two touchdowns in the second quarter. Rick Leach rushed for 99 yards and two touchdowns and complete six of 11 passes for 76 yards. Russell Davis also rushed for 95 yards and a touchdown.U-M Bungles Way Past Duke, 21-9 Curt Sylvester Detroit Free Press September 18, 1977 1E, 4E https://www.newspapers.com/clip/4422151/um_bungles_way_past_duke_219/ Navy Week 3: Navy at Michigan Navy 0 0 7 0 Michigan 0 14 0 0 September 24 Ann Arbor, MI 101,877 yes 2 =MICH Huckleby 13-yard run (Gregg Willner kick) MICH 7-0 2 MICH Huckleby 22-yard run (Gregg Willner kick) MICH 14-0 3 NAVY Sandy Jones 34-yard pass from Bob Leszczynski (Tala kick) MICH 14-7 yes On September 24, 1977, Michigan defeated Navy, 14-7, at Michigan Stadium. Michigan's points were all scored in the second quarter on runs of 13 and 34 yards by running back Harlan Huckleby. Huckleby rushed for 147 yards, and Russell Davis added 93 more, but Navy outgained Michigan by 301 total yards to 277 total yards. Michigan had defeated Navy by 56 points in 1976, and the seven-point victory in 1977 was considered a disappointment.Rough Seas: 'M' 14, Navy 7 Curt Sylvester Detroit Free Press September 25, 1977 1E, 4E https://www.newspapers.com/clip/4422961/rough_seas_m_14_navy_7/ After the game, Michigan dropped from #1 to #3 in the AP and Coaches' Polls. Texas A&M Week 4: Texas A&M at Michigan Texas A&M 3 0 0 0 Michigan 0 7 13 21 October 1 Ann Arbor, MI 104,802 Keith Jackson, Frank Broyles ABC yes 1 A&M Tony Franklin 24-yard field goal A&M 3-0 2 MICH Russell Davis 4-yard run (Gregg Willner kick) MICH 7-3 3 MICH Russell Davis 1-yard run (run failed) MICH 13-3 3 MICH Curt Stephenson 35-yard pass from Rick Leach (Gregg Willner kick) MICH 20-3 4 MICH Harlan Huckleby 8-yard run (Gregg Willner kick) MICH 27-3 4 MICH Jim Pickens recovered blocked punt in end zone (Gregg Willner kick) MICH 34-3 4 MICH Mike Jolly 50-yard interception return (Gregg Willner kick) MICH 41-3 yes On October 1, 1977, No. 3 Michigan defeated No. 5 Texas A&M, 41-3, in front of 104,802 spectators at Michigan Stadium. Russell Davis rushed for 110 yards and two touchdowns, and Harlan Huckleby added 73 yards and a touchdown. Rick Leach also threw a 35-yard touchdown pass to Curt Stephenson. On defense, Ron Simpkins had 14 tackles, recovered a fumble, and blocked a punt that Jim Pickens recovered in the end zone for a touchdown. Mike Jolly also returned an interception 50 yards for a touchdown. After "skimpy victories" over Duke and Navy, the trouncing of the highly rated Aggies was considered "one of [Michigan's] most stunning performances in recent years. Columnist Joe Falls wrote: "It may have been Bo Schembechler's finest coaching job in his nine years at Michigan."Bo Finally Cut His Players Loose Joe Falls Detroit Free Press October 2, 1977 1E https://www.newspapers.com/clip/4425225/bo_finally_cuts_his_players_loose/ Texas A&M coach Emory Bellard said, "Michigan came out in the second half and beat us every way you can beat a football team. . . . Michigan is an outstanding team."That's More Like It! U-M Rips Texas A&M, 41-3 Curt Sylvester Detroit Free Press October 2, 1937 1E, 4E https://www.newspapers.com/clip/4425173/thats_more_like_it_um_rips_texas_am/ Michigan State Week 5: Michigan at Michigan State Michigan 0 10 14 0 Michigan St 0 7 0 7 October 8 East Lansing, MI 78,183 yes Q2 MSU Gibson 19 yard pass from Smith (Nielsen kick) MSU 7–0 Q2 MICH White 12 yard pass from Leach (Willner kick) Tie 7–7 Q2 MICH Willner 50 yard field goal MICH 10–7 Q3 MICH R. Davis 3 yard run (Willner kick) MICH 17–7 Q3 MICH Leach 3 yard run (Willner kick) MICH 24–7 Q4 MSU Earley 11 yard run (Nielsen kick) MICH 24–14 yes On October 8, 1977, Michigan defeated Michigan State, 24-14, at Spartan Stadium. Michigan State took a 7-0 lead on a 19-yard touchdown pass from Ed Smith to Kirk Gibson. Michigan responded with a 12-yard touchdown pass from Rick Leach to White and a 50-yard field goal to take a 10-7 lead at halftime. Michigan extended its lead to 24-7 in the third quarter on touchdown runs by Russell Davis and Ed Leach. Harlan Huckleby rushed for 146 yards, and Russell Davis added 96 yards. Ralph Clayton caught three passes for 99 yards. Michigan completed four of 10 passes in the game and threw only one pass in the second half.U-M Struggles, 24-14 Charlie Vincent Detroit Free Press October 9, 1977 1E, 4E https://www.newspapers.com/clip/4425416/um_struggles_2414/ Wisconsin Week 6: Wisconsin at Michigan Wisconsin 0 0 0 0 Michigan 7 14 14 21 October 15 Ann Arbor, MI 104,892 yes Q1 MICH Marsh 7 yard pass from Leach (Willner kick) MICH 7–0 Q2 MICH Leach 2 yard run (Willner kick) MICH 14–0 Q2 MICH R. Smith 2 yard run (Willner kick) MICH 21–0 Q3 MICH G. Johnson 22 yard pass from Leach (Willner kick) MICH 28–0 Q3 MICH R. Davis 37 yard run (Labun kick) MICH 35–0 Q4 MICH R. Smith 2 yard run (Labun kick) MICH 42–0 Q4 MICH Edwards 3 yard run (Labun kick) MICH 49–0 Q4 MICH Dickey 2 yard run (Labun kick) MICH 56–0 yes On October 15, 1977, #1 Michigan defeated undefeated and #14 Wisconsin, 56-0, in front of 104,892 spectators at Michigan Stadium. Rick Leach rushed for 32 yards and a touchdown and completed 10 of 16 passes for 127 yards and touchdown passes to Doug Marsh and Gene Johnson. Roosevelt Smith rushed for 157 yards and two touchdowns, and Russell Davis rushed for 105 yards and a touchdown. Stanley Edwards and B. J. Dickey also scored rushing touchdowns. After the game, Michigan coach Bo Schembechler said, "We played this one as a big game and it turned out that way."U-M Clips Badger Streak With a 56-0 TD Barrage Curt Sylvester Detroit Free Press October 16, 1977 1D, 4D https://www.newspapers.com/clip/4425732/um_clips_badger_streak_with_a_560_td/ Minnesota Week 7: Michigan at Minnesota Michigan 0 0 0 0 Minnesota 10 3 0 3 October 22 Minneapolis 44,165 yes 1 Minn Paul Rogind 41-yard field goal Minnesota 3-0 1 Minn Marion Barber, Jr 3-yard run (Rogind kick) Minnesota 10-0 2 Minn Rogind 37-yard field goal Minnesota 13-0 yes 4 Minn Rogind 32-yard field goal Minnesota 16-0 On October 22, 1977, #1 Michigan lost to unranked Minnesota, 16-0, at Memorial Stadium, Minneapolis. All 16 of Minnesota points were scored by Paul Rogind (three field goals and an extra point) and Marion Barber, Jr. (three-yard touchdown run). Both Rogind and Barber were from the State of Michigan—Rogind from Farmington, Michigan and Barber from Detroit. Michigan's offense was shut out for the first time in 112 games dating back to 1967. After the game, Minnesota's players swarmed across the field to reclaim the Little Brown Jug trophy that had been in Michigan's custody for a decade. After the game the Detroit Free Press wrote: "In one fell swoop, Minnesota took away Michigan's No. 1 rating, its undefeated season, and, oh yes, that little chunk of pottery known as the Little Brown Jug."It's Goodby [sic] No. 1, Perfect Season And Brown Jug! U-M Flops, 16-0 Curt Sylvester Detroit Free Press October 23, 1977 1E, 5E https://www.newspapers.com/clip/4425959/its_goodby_no_1/ Iowa Week 8: Iowa at Michigan Iowa 0 0 0 6 Michigan 7 7 7 2 October 29 Ann Arbor, MI 104,617 yes 1 MICH R. Davis 63-yard pass from Leach (Willner kick) Michigan 7-0 2 MICH G. Johnson 6-yard pass from Leach (Willner kick) Michigan 14-0 3 MICH White 32-yard pass from Leach (Willner kick) Michigan 21-0 4 IOWA McLaughlin 1-yard run (run failed) Michigan 21-6 4 MICH Safety, McLaughlin tackled in end zone Michigan 23-6 yes On October 29, 1977, Michigan, ranked #6 after losing to Minnesota, defeated Iowa, 23–6, before a crowd of 104,617 at the annual homecoming game at Michigan Stadium. Rick Leach completed nine of 12 passes for 202 yards, including touchdown passes covering 63 yards to Russell Davis, six yards to Gene Johnson, and 32 yards to Rick White. Leach's three touchdown passes gave him 25 for his career, breaking the record of 23 set by Bob Chappuis in the 1940s. Michigan also scored on a safety in the fourth quarter when linebacker Dom Tedesco tackled Iowa's quarterback in the end zone. After the game, Bo Schembechler said, "That was a devastating defeat a week ago. No one will ever know how hard it was to come back from that game."U-M Back in Groove, 23-6: Leach Destroys Iowa Curt Sylvester Detroit Free Press October 30, 1977 1E, 5E https://www.newspapers.com/clip/4426577/leach_destroys_iowa_um_back_in_groove/ Northwestern Week 9: Northwestern at Michigan Northwestern 7 0 0 13 Michigan 0 14 28 21 November 5 Ann Arbor, MI 103,211 yes 1 NW Stranski 1 yard run (Poulos kick) Northwestern 7–0 2 MICH Huckleby 4 yard run (Willner kick) Tie 7–7 2 MICH G. Johnson recovered fumble in end zone (Willner kick) Michigan 14–7 3 MICH Leach 21 yard run (Willner kick) Michigan 21–7 3 MICH Leach 4 yard run (Willner kick) Michigan 28–7 3 MICH Edwards 26 yard pass from Leach (Willner kick) Michigan 35–7 3 MICH Clayton 41 yard pass from Leach (Willner kick) Michigan 42–7 4 MICH Reid 19 yard run (Willner kick) Michigan 49–7 4 NW Sheets 28 yard pass from Stranski (Poulos kick) Michigan 49–14 4 MICH M. Smith 15 yard run (Willner kick) Michigan 56–14 4 MICH Mitchell 34 yard pass from Wangler (Willner kick) Michigan 63–14 4 NW Bailey 7 yard pass from Stranski (pass failed) Michigan 63–20 yes On November 5, 1977, Michigan defeated Northwestern, 63-20, at Michigan Stadium. In the lopsided victory, 77 Michigan players had an opportunity to play in the game. Rick Leach ran for two touchdowns, passed for two more (one to Stanley Edwards, the other to Ralph Clayton), and set a new Michigan's record with 2,664 career passing yards. Late in the game, John Wangler threw a touchdown pass to Alan Mitchell. Michigan totaled 511 yards of total offense.U-M Finally Has Laugher! Skins Tame Cats, 63-20 Curt Sylvester Detroit Free Press November 6, 1977 1D, 8D https://www.newspapers.com/clip/4426677/um_finally_has_laugher/ Purdue Week 10: Michigan at Purdue Michigan 3 14 21 2 Purdue 7 0 0 0 November 12 West Lafayette, IN yes 1 PUR Dave Young 6-yard pass from Mark Herrmann (Scott Sovereen kick) PUR 7-0 1 MICH Gregg Willner 28-yard field goal PUR 7-3 2 MICH Mark Schmerge 8-yard pass from Rick Leach (Gregg Willner kick) MICH 10-7 2 MICH Roosevelt Smith 2-yard run (Willner kick) MICH 17-7 3 MICH Russell Davis 2-yard run (Gregg Willner kick) MICH 24-7 3 MICH Dom Tedesco 30-yard interception return (Willner kick) MICH 31-7 3 0:50 MICH Schmerge 6-yard pass from Leach (Willner kick) MICH 38-7 4 MICH Safety, Herrmann tackled in end zone MICH 40-7 yes On November 12, 1977, Michigan defeated Purdue, 40–7, before a crowd of 68,003 at Ross–Ade Stadium in West Lafayette, Indiana. One year earlier, Purdue had upset Michigan by a 16–14 score, knocking Michigan out of the No. 1 ranking. Adding to the anticipation, the game matched coach Schembechler against his longtime defensive coordinator, Jim Young, who took over as Purdue's head coach in 1977. Purdue's freshman quarterback Mark Herrmann led the Boilermakers on a 55-yard, seven-play opening drive capped by a six-yard touchdown pass to Dave Young. Defensive back Dwight Hicks set up Michigan's first score when he intercepted Hermann's pass at Purdue's 18-yard line with five minutes remaining in the first quarter. Michigan settled for a field goal, and Purdue held a 7-3 lead at the end of the first quarter. In the second quarter, Michigan quarterback Rick Leach led the Wolverines on a 60-yard, eight-minute drive capped by an eight-yard touchdown pass to Mark Schmerge. With less than a minute remaining in the second quarter, Michigan forced a fumble on a punt, which was recovered by Curt Stephenson at the two-yard line. Roosevelt Smith scored on the next play, and Michigan took a 17-7 lead at halftime.Ready for Woody: 'M' rolls, 40-7 The Michigan Daily Tom Cameron November 13, 1977 1, 10 https://digital.bentley.umich.edu/midaily/mdp.39015071754506/717 Bentley Historical LibraryU-M Paves Way for OSU By Rocking Purdue, 40-7 Detroit Free Press Curt Sylvester November 13, 1977 1D, 6D https://www.newspapers.com/clip/41602257/um_paves_way_for_osu_by_rocking/ Newspapers.com Michigan back Russell Davis, playing in place of an injured Harlan Huckleby, rushed for 127 yards in the third quarter (168 in the game), including a 24-yard touchdown run. Michigan extended its lead to 31-7 when Dom Tedesco intercepted a Hermann pass and returned it for a touchdown. With 50 seconds left in the third quarter, Michigan scored again on a second touchdown pass from Leach to Schmerge. Michigan concluded the scoring in the fourth quarter when Tom Seabron sacked Hermann in the end zone for a safety. After Purdue's opening drive, Michigan's defense held Purdue scoreless for the remainder of the game. Linebacker Ron Simpkins led the defense with 10 tackles, and the Wolverines also limited Hermann to 74 passing yards with three interceptions. Ohio State Week 11: Ohio State at Michigan Ohio State 3 0 3 0 Michigan 0 7 7 0 November 19 Ann Arbor, MI 106,024 Keith Jackson, Ara Parseghian ABC yes 1 OHIO Vlade Janakievski 29-yard field goal OHIO 3–0 2 MICH Roosevelt Smith 1-yard run (Gregg Willner kick) MICH 7–3 3 MICH Rick Leach 2-yard run (Willner kick) MICH 14–3 3 OHIO Janakievski 44-yard field goal MICH 14–6 yes On November 19, 1977, Michigan, ranked No. 5 in both polls, defeated No. 4 Ohio State, 14–6, at Michigan Stadium. The game was broadcast to a national television audience on ABC, and the crowd of 106,024 at the stadium was the largest ever to attend a regular-season college football game. The opening minutes were preempted by the arrival of Egyptian President Anwar Sadat on his historic visit to Israel, causing an angry reaction in Ann Arbor bars where hundreds had gathered to watch the game.ABC puts Sadat before The Game The Michigan Daily Lois Josimovich November 20, 1977 1, 2 https://digital.bentley.umich.edu/midaily/mdp.39015071754506/785 Bentley Historical Library For the second consecutive year, Michigan's defense prevented Ohio State from scoring a touchdown. Ohio State had the momentum in the first quarter, taking a 3–0 lead on a Vlade Janakievski field goal and limiting Michigan to five plays and five yards. A second Janakievski field goal attempt in the opening quarter went wide to the right. In the second quarter, quarterback Rick Leach led the Wolverines on a 50-yard drive, but a 42-yard field goal attempt by Gregg Willner fell short. On the next possession, Leach again led the Wolverines down the field, and this time the drive ended with a one-yard touchdown run by Roosevelt Smith. Michigan led, 7–3, at halftime.Ah! Everything Comes Up Roses For Bo's Gutty Wolverines, 14-6 Detroit Free Press Curt Sylvester November 20, 1977 1D, 7D https://www.newspapers.com/clip/41609776/ah_everything_comes_up_roses_for_bos/ Newspapers.com In the third quarter, Michigan linebacker Ron Simpkins recovered a Ron Springs fumble at Ohio State's 20-yard line. Leach then scored on a two-yard run. Willner converted the extra point kick, and Michigan led, 14–3. On the next drive, Ohio State quarterback Rod Gerald led a 74-yard drive to Michigan's 11-yard line, but the Buckeyes lost yardage on the next three plays, including a sack by Simpkins. Ohio State settled for a field goal by Janakievski. Ohio State moved deep into Michigan territory on two additional drives. On the first, the defense stopped Ohio State fullback Paul Campbell on a fourth-and-one run at the 10-yard line. On the other, Ohio State drove more than 90 yards and had a first down at Michigan's eight-yard line. On the next play, Gerald was hit in the backfield by linebacker John Anderson and fumbled, with Derek Howard recovering the ball for Michigan. In a battle of two great defenses, Ohio State out-gained Michigan by 352 yards to 196. Michigan managed only 10 first downs to 23 for Ohio State. After the game, coach Schembechler praised his defense: "Our defense was terrific. They came up with big plays when we had to have them."The Bucks stopped here! Defenders are key to triumph The Michigan Daily Kathy Henneghan November 20, 1977 1, 9 https://digital.bentley.umich.edu/midaily/mdp.39015071754506/785 Bentley Historical Library Ohio State coach Woody Hayes said: "This is by far the best game we ever played and lost. Their defense should receive great, great credit, for they stopped us when we were in scoring position." The game was marred by controversy when 64-year-old coach Hayes punched ABC's sideline cameraman in the stomach. Hayes was angered when the cameraman focused on Hayes after his quarterback's fourth quarter fumble. Asked about the incident in a post-game press conference, Hayes "went into a mini-rage", balled his fist in front of the reporter and said: "They stick it in your face every damn time."Angry Woody Hits TV Cameraman Detroit Free Press Jim Benagh November 20, 1977 1D, 7D https://www.newspapers.com/clip/41611118/angry_woody_hits_tv_cameraman/ Newspapers.com Two days later, Hayes apologized for the incident, but at the same time called the cameraman "a liar" and said he was "so damned tired of hearing what I did to that man out there."Woody 'Regrets' Slugging Cameraman Detroit Free Press November 22, 1977 5D https://www.newspapers.com/clip/41611776/woody_regrets_slugging_camerama/ Newspapers.com Rose Bowl 1978 Rose Bowl Rose Bowl: Michigan vs. Washington Michigan 0 0 7 13 Washington 7 10 10 0 January 2 Pasadena, CA 105,312 Curt Gowdy, John Brodie NBC yes Q1 6:37 UW Warren Moon 2-yard run (Steve Robbins kick) UW 7–0 Q2 10:33 UW Robbins 30-yard field goal UW 10–0 Q2 3:26 UW Moon 1-yard run (Robbins kick) UW 17–0 Q3 12:21 UW Spider Gaines 28-yard pass from Moon (Robbins kick) UW 24–0 Q3 4:31 MICH Curt Stephenson 76-yard pass from Rick Leach (Gregg Willner kick) UW 24–7 Q3 0:50 UW Robbins 26-yard field goal UW 27–7 Q4 11:21 MICH Russell Davis 2-yard run (Willner kick) UW 27–14 Q4 3:44 MICH Stan Edwards 32-yard pass from Leach (kick missed) UW 27–20 yes On January 2, 1978, Michigan lost to Washington, 27–20, in the 1978 Rose Bowl. Michigan entered the game ranked No. 4 by the AP and favored by two touchdowns against No. 13 Washington. With the loss, Michigan coach Schembechler had a record of 0-8-1 in the final games of his nine seasons at Michigan. Washington dominated early, taking a 17–0 lead at halftime. Washington quarterback Warren Moon scored on two rushing touchdowns, and Steve Robbins kicked a 30-yard field goal. Washington was aided in the first quarter when Michigan punter John Anderson dropped to one knee to field an errant snap, giving Washington excellent field position. In another first half mishap, Michigan drove to Washington's 31-yard line but turned the ball over on a Russell Davis fumble. With two minutes remaining the first half, Washington coach Don James called for a fake punt on fourth-and-seven from the Huskies' 33-yard line. Washington's freshman punter Aaron Wilson completed a pass from punt formation that resulted in a 46-yard gain. At the start of the third quarter, Michigan's Mike Jolly intercepted a Moon pass deep in Washington territory. On fourth down inside the five-yard line, Roosevelt Smith's run was stopped short of the line to gain. After the goal-line stand, Moon led the Huskies on a 97-yard touchdown drive ending with a 28-yard touchdown pass from Moon to Spider Gaines. The Huskies led, 24–0. In the final 20 minutes of the game, Michigan turned to a passing game and scored three touchdowns. With less than five minutes remaining in the third quarter, Rick Leach threw 23 yards to Curt Stephenson who ran untouched the remaining 53 yards into the end zone. Leach's 76-yard completion to Stephenson was the longest pass play in Rose bowl history to that point. Michigan next scored on touchdown runs by Russell Davis and Stan Edwards. With 95 seconds left in the game, Michigan had the ball at Washington's 19-yard line when Ralph Clayton dropped Leach's pass in the end zone. Leach then hit Stan Edwards with a pass at the six-yard line, but the ball bounced off Edwards' hands and helmet and was intercepted by Washington linebacker Michael Jackson. Michigan's defense then held on three plays and forced Washington to punt from its end zone. On the final drive of the game, Leach threw into the end zone again, but the pass was intercepted by Washington back Nesby Glasgow.It's Moon Over Michigan in 27-20 Stunner: Huskies Barely Hang On After Charging to 24-0 Lead in Rose Bowl Los Angeles Times Bob Oates January 3, 1978 III-1, III-8 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/41616797/its_moon_over_michigan_in_2720_stunner/ Newspapers.comRoses Whither and Die on U-M! Pass Steals Save Huskies, 27-20 Detroit Free Press January 3, 1978 1D, 5D https://www.newspapers.com/clip/41647556/roses_whither_and_die_on_um_pass/ Newspapers.com Award season Five Michigan players received honors on the 1977 All-America team: Offensive tackle Mark Donahue was a unanimous selection, receiving first-team honors from the American Football Coaches Association,Irish Place Trio on Coaches All-America Team The Tribune November 24, 1977 58 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/41753230/irish_place_trio_on_coaches_allamerica/ Newspapers.com the Associated Press,AP tabs Donahue All-American: Kenn, Hicks on Second Team The Michigan Daily November 30, 1977 9 https://digital.bentley.umich.edu/midaily/mdp.39015071754506/841 Bentley Historical Library the Football Writers Association of America,FWAA All-America Since 1944: The All-Time Team Ted Gangi March 2, 2016 http://www.sportswriters.net/fwaa/awards/allamerica/alltime.pdf March 4, 2019 https://web.archive.org/web/20190304073432/http://www.sportswriters.net/fwaa/awards/allamerica/alltime.pdf dead the United Press International,UPI All-America Football Team The Cumberland News December 2, 1977 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/41753584/upi_allamerica_football_team/ Newspapers.com Football News,College football St. Louis Post-Dispatch November 20, 1977 9F https://www.newspapers.com/clip/4547795/1977_football_news_all_america_team/ Newspapers.com the Newspaper Enterprise Association,Campbell, Browner top All Americans The Waxahachie Daily Light December 8, 1977 3 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/4547638/campbell_browner_top_all_americans/ Newspapers.com The Sporting News,All America teams: Sporting News The Courier-Journal (Louisville) December 7, 1977 D3 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/4547695/1977_tsn_all_america_team/ Newspapers.com and the Walter Camp Football Foundation.Irish, Pittsburgh, Buckeyes dominate Camp All-America Alamogordo Daily News December 13, 1977 2 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/41754620/irish_pittsburgh_buckeyes_dominate/ Newspapers.com Center Walt Downing received first-team honors from the American Football Coaches Association, Football News, and The Sporting News, and second-team honors from the Newspaper Enterprise Association. Linebacker John Anderson received first-team honors from the Football Writers Association of America and second-team honors from the United Press International. Offensive tackle Mike Kenn received second-team honors from the Associated Press. Defensive back Dwight Hicks also received second-team honors from the Associated Press. Fourteen Michigan players received recognition from the Associated Press (selected by sports writers and broadcasters) and/or United Press International (selected by the Big Ten coaches) on the 1977 All-Big Ten Conference football team: Mark Donahue at guard (AP-1, UPI-1), Dwight Hicks at defensive back (AP-1, UPI-1), Rick Leach at quarterback (AP-1, UPI-2), Mike Kenn at offensive tackle (AP-1, UPI-2), Walt Downing at center (AP-1), John Anderson at defensive end (AP-2, UPI-1) and punter (AP-2, UPI-2), Ron Simpkins at linebacker (AP-2, UPI-1), Jim Pickens at defensive back (AP-2, UPI-1), Russell Davis at running back (AP-2, UPI-2), Harlan Huckleby at running back (UPI-2), Steve Graves at middle guard (UPI-2), Derek Howard at defensive back (UPI-2), Gene Johnson at tight end (AP-2), and Dom Tedesco at linebacker (AP-2).1977 All-Big Ten Football The Times Recorder November 29, 1977 3B https://www.newspapers.com/clip/41716963/1977_allbig_ten_football/ Newspapers.comOSU, Michigan Dominate Big 10 The Salem News (Salem, Ohio) November 23, 1977 9 https://www.newspapers.com/image/85973380/?terms=leach%2Bcousineau%2Bbethea%2B%22united%2Bpress%22 Team awards were presented as follows: Most Valuable Player: Russell Davis Meyer Morton Award: John Anderson Frederick Matthei Award: Jerry Meter Arthur Robinson Scholarship Award: John Anderson John Maulbetsch Award: Ron Simpkins Personnel Full roster 1977 Michigan Wolverines f 64 Jr John Arbeznik G y 61 Jr Greg Bartnick G 65 Fr Kurt Becker G y 12 Sr Roger Bettis QB 8 Fr Jim Breaugh QB 33 Jr Russell Davis Russell Davis (running back) FB y 10 Fr B. J. Dickey QB y 29 So Gerald Diggs TB 60 Sr Mark Donahue G y 72 Sr Walt Downing C y 73 Sr Bill Dufek T 32 Fr Stanley Edwards RB y 51 Jr Jon Giesler T y 25 Jr Harlan Huckleby RB y 88 Sr Gene Johnson TE 9 Jr Stacy Johnson QB 51 Jr Dave Kadela T 78 Sr Mike Kenn T y 36 Sr Kevin King FB 7 Jr Rick Leach Rick Leach (baseball) QB y 59 So George Lilja C y 80 Jr Doug Marsh TE y 30 Fr Alan Mitchell WR 67 So John Powers T 23 So Lawrence Reid FB 43 Sr Max Richardson WB 82 Jr Mark Schmerge TE 44 Sr Mike Smith TB 85 Sr Curt Stephenson WR 69 Sr Gerry Szara G 86 Sr John Anderson John Anderson (American football) LB P y 42 So Gene Bell W 28 Jr Mark Braman DB 45 Sr Woody Brown S 41 Fr Andy Cannavino LB y 92 Jr Mark DeSantis LB 90 So Chris Godfrey DT y 54 Sr Steve Graves MG 95 Jr Curtis Greer DT y 4 So Mike Harden DB y 83 Sr Dave Harding ILS 17 Sr Dwight Hicks W y 94 Jr Robert Holloway LB 10 Sr Derek Howard CB 93 Sr William Jackson DT 20 Sr Raymond Johnson DB 16 So Mike Jolly DB y 55 Jr Dave Keitz DT 38 Jr Thomas Melita MG 46 Jr Jerry Meter LB y 53 So Mel Owens LB y 24 Sr Robert Patek W 18 Sr Jim Pickens S 91 Jr Tom Seabron LB y 40 So Ron Simpkins LB y 99 Sr Dominic Tedesco LB 77 Fr Mike Trgovac MG y 3 Sr Nick Labun K 99 So Bryan Virgil K 1 Jr Greg Willner K https://bentley.umich.edu/athdept/rosters/search.php?data=football&year_option=equals&year=1977&sortby=lastname%2C+firstname%2C+year&find=FIND *Bo Schembechler Bill McCartney (defensive coordinator)Dennis Brown (defensive ends)Jack Harbaugh (defensive backs)Tom Reed (defensive line)Jerry Hanlon (offensive line)Paul Schudel (offensive interior line)Tirrel Burton (offensive ends)Don Nehlen (offensive backfield) Offense John Arbeznik, offensive guard, junior, University Heights, Ohio - started 1 game at right offensive guard Greg Bartnick, offensive guard, junior, Detroit, Michigan - started 2 games at right offensive guard Kurt Becker, offensive tackle, freshman, Aurora, Illinois Roger Bettis, quarterback, senior, Minerva, Ohio Jim Breaugh, quarterback, freshman, West Bloomfield, M wing back, sophomore, Detroit, Michigan - started 8 games at wing back Ralph Clayton, wing back, sophomore, Detroit - started eight games at wing back Russell Davis, fullback, junior, Woodbridge, Virginia - started all 12 games at fullback B. J. Dickey, quarterback, freshman, Ottawa, Ohio Gerald Diggs, tailback, sophomore, Chicago, Illinois Mark Donahue, offensive guard, senior, Oak Lawn, Illinois - started all 12 games at left offensive guard Walt Downing, center, senior, Coatesville, Pennsylvania - started all 12 games at center Bill Dufek, offensive tackle, senior, East Grand Rapids, Michigan Stanley Edwards, tailback, freshman, Detroit, Michigan Jon Giesler, offensive tackle, junior, Woodville, Ohio - started 1 game at left offensive tackle, 1 game at right offensive tackle Harlan Huckleby, tailback, junior, Detroit, Michigan - started all 12 games at tailback Gene Johnson, tight end, junior, Flint, Michigan - started 9 games at tight end Stacy Johnson, quarterback, junior, Camden, New Jersey Dave Kadela, offensive tackle, junior, Dearborn, Michigan Mike Kenn, offensive tackle, senior, Evanston, Illinois - started 11 games at left offensive tackle Kevin King, fullback, senior, Oak Lawn, Illinois Rick Leach, quarterback, junior, Flint, Michigan - started all 12 games at quarterback George Lilja, center, sophomore, Palos Park, Illinois Doug Marsh, tight end, junior, Akron, Ohio Alan Mitchell, wide receiver, freshman, Detroit, Michigan John J. Powers, offensive tackle, sophomore, Oak Park, Illinois - started 10 games at right offensive tackle Lawrence P. Reid, fullback, sophomore, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Max Richardson, wing back, senior, Fort Wayne, Indiana - started 4 games at wing back Mark Schmerge, tight end, junior, Cincinnati, Ohio - started 1 game at tight end Mike Smith, tailback, senior, Kalamazoo, Michigan Rickey Blake, tailback, sophomore, Chicago, Illinois Curt Stephenson, wide receiver, senior, La Jolla, California Gerry Szara, offensive guard, senior, Oak Lawn, Illinois - started 9 games at right guard Richard White, wide receiver, senior, Cincinnati, Ohio - started all 12 games at wide receiver Defense John Anderson, defensive end, punter, senior, Waukesha, Wisconsin - started all 12 games at outside linebacker Gene Bell, wolf, sophomore, East Liverpool, Ohio Mark Braman, defensive halfback, junior, Midland, Michigan Woody Brown, safety, senior, East Detroit, Michigan Andy Cannavino, inside linebacker, freshman, Cleveland, Ohio Mark DeSantis, outside linebacker, junior, Harper Woods, Michigan Chris Godfrey, defensive tackle, sophomore, Detroit, Michigan - started 5 games at defensive tackle Steve Graves, middle guard, senior, Cleveland, Ohio - started all 12 games at middle guard Curtis Greer, defensive tackle, junior, Detroit, Michigan - started 9 games at defensive tackle Mike Harden, defensive halfback, sophomore, Detroit, Michigan - started 1 game at weak-side cornerback, 1 game at safety Dave Harding, ILS, senior, Northville, Michigan Dwight Hicks, wolf, senior, Pennsauken, New Jersey - started 11 games at wolfman Robert K. Holloway, outside linebacker, junior, West Bloomfield, Michigan Derek Howard, wolf, senior, Hamilton, Ohio - started all 12 games (10 at strong-side cornerback, 1 at wolfman, 1 at safety) William Jackson, defensive tackle, junior, Richmond, Virginia - started 1 game at defensive tackle Raymond J. Johnson, defensive halfback, senior, Gary, Indiana Mike Jolly, defensive halfback, sophomore, Melvindale, Michigan - started 11 games at weak-side cornerback Dale Keitz, defensive tackle, junior, Columbus, Ohio - started 9 games at defensive tackle Thomas A. Melita, middle guard, junior, Penns Grove, New Jersey Jerry Meter, inside linebacker, junior, Birmingham, Michigan - started all 12 games at inside linebacker Mel Owens, inside linebacker, sophomore, DeKalb, Illinois - started 1 game at inside linebacker Robert M. Patek, wolf, junior, Farmington Hills, Michigan Jim Pickens, defensive halfback, senior, Sylvania, Ohio - started all 12 games (10 at safety, 2 at strong-side cornerback) Tom Seabron, outside linebacker, junior, Detroit, Michigan Ron Simpkins, inside linebacker, sophomore, Detroit, Michigan - started 11 games at inside linebacker Dominic Tedesco, outside linebacker, senior, Riverside, Illinois - started all 12 games at outside linebacker Mike Trgovac, middle guard, freshman, Austintown, Ohio Kickers Nick Labun, place-kicker, senior, Rockford, Illinois Bryan Virgil, place-kicker, sophomore, Buchanan, Michigan Gregg Willner, place-kicker, junior, Miami Beach, FloridaWillner, Virgil Marks of Consistency The Michigan Daily Ernie Dunbar October 27, 1978 17 https://digital.bentley.umich.edu/midaily/mdp.39015071754365/647 Bentley Historical Library Coaching staff Head coach: Bo Schembechler Assistant coaches: Bill McCartney - defensive coordinatorMeet Michigan assistants The Michigan Daily Gary Kicinski September 17, 1977 15 https://digital.bentley.umich.edu/midaily/mdp.39015071754506/168 Bentley Historical Library Dennis Brown - defensive ends coach Jack Harbaugh - defensive backs coach Tom Reed - defensive line coach Jerry Hanlon - offensive line coach Paul Schudel - offensive interior line coach Tirrel Burton - offensive ends coach Don Nehlen - offensive backfield coach Graduate assistants - Bob Thornbladh, Barry Pierson, Tim Davis, and Jerry Zuver Other personnel Athletic director: Don CanhamMichigan's Money-Maker: Canham -- what makes him tick? The Michigan Daily Billy Neff November 8, 1979 9 https://digital.bentley.umich.edu/midaily/mdp.39015071754373/747 Bentley Historical Library Trainer: Lindsy McLeanTending to tendons with trainer McLean The Michigan Daily October 16, 1977 7 https://digital.bentley.umich.edu/midaily/mdp.39015071754506/446 Bentley Historical Library Manager: Donald G. Di PaoloManager Don: Jack-of-all-trades for Bo's big boys The Michigan Daily October 16, 1977 10 https://digital.bentley.umich.edu/midaily/mdp.39015071754506/443 Bentley Historical Library Stadium announcer: Howard KingHoward King's vocal vocation The Michigan Daily October 16, 1977 7 https://digital.bentley.umich.edu/midaily/mdp.39015071754506/446 Bentley Historical Library Radio play-by-play announcer: Bob Ufer (WJR)Bob Ufer: The man behind the mike The Michigan Daily Cub Schwartz September 8, 1977 5 https://digital.bentley.umich.edu/midaily/mdp.39015071754506/19 Bentley Historical Library Statistics Offensive statistics Rushing 2 Michigan Wolverines Player Att Net Yards Yds/Att TD Russell Davis 207 1,013 4.9 7 Harlan Huckleby 160 743 4.6 6 Rick Leach 106 370 3.5 7 Roosevelt Smith 57 308 5.4 4 Stan Edwards 33 152 4.6 1 Passing 2 Michigan Wolverines Player Att Comp Int Comp % Yds Yds/Comp TD Rick Leach 147 76 7 51.7 1,109 14.6 13 John Wangler 2 1 1 50.0 33 33.0 1 B. J. Dickey 3 1 33.3 -3.0 -3.0 0 Receiving 2 Michigan Wolverines Player Recp Yds Yds/Recp TD Ralph Clayton 19 393 20.7 2 Gene Johnson 13 187 14.4 3 Russell Davis12 148 12.31 Harlan Huckleby121048.70 Special teams statistics Returns 2 Michigan Wolverines Player Kickoff returns Yds Yds/Rtrn TD Punt returns Yds Yds/Rtrn TD Dwight Hicks 00-016 161 10.10 Ralph Clayton 7 137 19.6 0 00-0 Mike Harden 34916.3014866.10 Harlan Huckleby 4 90 22.5 0 00-0 Roosevelt Smith 48020.0000-0 Stan Edwards 28643.0000-0 Mike Jolly00-03289.30 Kicking 2 Michigan Wolverines Player PATA PATM Percent FGA FGM Percent Punts Punt Yds Avg Points Gregg Willner414097.612325.000-49 Nick LaBun44100.000-00-4John Anderson00-00-522,09940.40 References External links 1977 Football Team -- Bentley Historical Library, University of Michigan Athletics History Michigan Category:Michigan Wolverines football seasons Category:Big Ten Conference football champion seasons Michigan Wolverines football