FOOTBALL

Two Michigan football stars in the running for major award

These two Michigan football stars could break a three-decade trend for the Wolverines.

Published

10 months ago

July 31, 2023

Michigan football, Blake Corum, JJ McCarthy, Maxwell Award

Nov 19, 2022; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; Michigan Wolverines running back Blake Corum (2) is tackled by Illinois Fighting Illini linebacker Calvin Hart Jr. (5) in the first half at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

Today, two Michigan football stars were named to the watch list for this year’s Maxwell Award, given to the most outstanding all-around player in college football. JJ McCarthy and Blake Corum, two of the top offensive players in the Big Ten and beyond, could be this year’s Maxwell winner.

Two Michigan football stars in the running for major college football award

After leading Michigan football to an impressive 13-1 season with wins over Michigan State, Penn State, Ohio State, and more, JJ McCarthy and Blake Corum are poised for huge seasons this fall. Corum and McCarthy both stepped into a full-time starting role last autumn and proved to be quite valuable, leading the program to its second-ever Big Ten title game victory and College Football Playoff appearance.

This fall, both Michigan football stars appear to be the best in the Big Ten, giving the Wolverines a strong shot at winning a third-straight conference championship and perhaps even the program’s first national title since 1997.

What is the Maxwell Award?

Founded in 1937, the Maxwell Award is seen as a symbol of excellence in college football, being awarded to the best player in the game annually. In 2021, Alabama quarterback Bryce Young won the award and was followed by USC quarterback Caleb Williams in 2022. The last time a Michigan football player won the Maxwell Award was over three decades ago in 1991, when Heisman Trophy winner Desmond Howard brought it home to Ann Arbor.

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CJ has covered college athletics in paid roles for around five years, including numerous sports and beats. His most recent work revolves largely around Penn State and Michigan football and basketball as a member of the credentialed media at both schools. Right now, CJ writes for Blue by Ninety, where he also serves as the site's credentialed football reporter. He also does some credentialed basketball coverage. Previously, CJ has made stops with sites like GBMWolverine, Saturday Blitz, Steeler Nation, and more.