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The fifth installment of the series examining the first games of Michigan coaches takes us to 2015. By the end of the 2014 football season, Michigan was in desperate need of change. Once again, optimism had faded into disappointment, with even a tinge of embarrassment. The fan base clamored for a coach who could restore confidence, belief, and success. 

That December, a Michigan graduate close to the athletic department sent out a text to a blogger. He’d just seen a potential coach with the initials “JH” enter Schembechler Hall. On Dec. 30, 2014, Michigan hired Jim Harbaugh as the next head coach of the Michigan Wolverines. It would be an understatement to say that Harbaugh rejuvenated the fan base immediately. 

Harbaugh returned to Michigan as a veritable “prodigal son.” A Michigan graduate who played for Bo Schembechler in the 1980s, Harbaugh had been critical of his alma mater on occasion. More important, he was a winner who had succeeded at the highest levels, and he brought instant credibility to the Michigan football program. 

On Sept. 3, 2015, Michigan entered Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City to begin the Jim Harbaugh era with a visit to Utah. Michigan alumni traveled to Utah in droves, and there were numerous spots of maize and blue throughout the stadium. Local news reports indicated Michigan fans had been spending a lot of money at nearby restaurants, and tipping well. The excitement around Harbaugh’s return was palpable, and even Utah residents appreciated the enthusiasm. Once the game began, Utah wasn’t so hospitable. 

The Utes had an established roster, and they were able to open holes for Devontae Booker and Travis Wilson, enabling Utah to take a 17-3 lead in the third quarter. Gradually, Michigan woke up. Quarterback Jake Rudock connected with Jake Butt and Amara Darboh for a pair of touchdowns, but the Wolverines were never able to close the gap, and Utah won, 24-17. 

Still, the tenacity that Michigan showed in the second half made it clear that Harbaugh was the right person to lead the Wolverines, and he eventually led them back to college football Valhalla. 

Harbaugh’s counterpart, Kyle Whittingham, defeated Michigan for the third team in three attempts as Utah coach. Each time, I remember thinking “I wish that guy was on our side.” Now, he is. Tomorrow, we’ll see his first game as Michigan coach, and get a better idea where he’ll take the football program.