A Rose Bowl classic unfolded in Pasadena on Monday night, as the University of Michigan made a stunning comeback in the fourth quarter against the University of Alabama, eventually winning in overtime.
J.J. McCarthy, Michigan’s quarterback, played a crucial role in this victory, propelling his team to the College Football Playoff National Championship in Houston with their perfect season intact.
After the game, Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh showered praise on McCarthy, going so far as to declare him the greatest quarterback to ever wear the maize and blue for the Wolverines. Harbaugh acknowledged that McCarthy has a long way to go to reach the level of Tom Brady, who had an illustrious NFL career after his time at Michigan. However, in terms of college football, Harbaugh firmly believes that McCarthy stands above all other quarterbacks in Michigan’s history.
Harbaugh also mentioned that the last quarterback to defeat Alabama in overtime was none other than Brady himself, before McCarthy took charge.
It’s worth noting that Brady himself agreed with Harbaugh’s statement, expressing his support with a resounding “Go Blue!!!” on SportsCenter’s clip of the post-game availability.
Although McCarthy had a slow start in the Rose Bowl, he showcased his talent and determination when it mattered most. In the fourth quarter, with the team’s season hanging in the balance, McCarthy delivered spectacular plays and ultimately connected with Roman Wilson for a wide-open touchdown pass to tie the game.
Michigan started overtime with possession and wasted no time finding the end zone. Running back Blake Corum scored his second touchdown of the game, securing the victory for the Wolverines.
McCarthy’s final stat line for the game was 17-of-27 for 221 yards and three touchdowns. He contributed significantly to Michigan’s success, including a catch-and-run touchdown pass to Tyler Morris.
Now, as Michigan prepares to face the red-hot Washington Huskies, McCarthy has the opportunity to reach new heights in his college career. If the Wolverines can overcome Washington, McCarthy’s legacy as one of Michigan’s greatest quarterbacks will be cemented.
It’s clear that Harbaugh’s belief in McCarthy’s greatness is shared by none other than the legendary Tom Brady himself. With this endorsement and his impressive performance, McCarthy has a chance to prove that he truly is the greatest quarterback in Michigan’s storied history.
(Image: J.J. McCarthy #9 of the Michigan Wolverines speaks to media during the post-game press conference after the CFP Semifinal Rose Bowl Game against the Alabama Crimson Tide at Rose Bowl Stadium on January 01, 2024 in Pasadena, California. – Aaron J. Thornton/Getty Images)
(Image: Quarterback Tom Brady of the New England Patriots laughs with head coach Jim Harbaugh of the Michigan Wolverines after they played catch before a game against the Colorado Buffaloes at Michigan Stadium on September 17, 2016 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. – Duane Burleson/Getty Images)
(Image: Quarterback J.J. McCarthy #9 of the Michigan Wolverines celebrates with a rose after defeating Alabama Crimson Tide 27-20 in overtime to win the 110th Rose Bowl game in Pasadena on Monday, January 1, 2024. – Keith Birmingham/MediaNews Group/Pasadena Star-News via Getty Images)
Scott Thompson is a sports writer for LA News Center.
Original article source: foxnews.com
