Blake Corum is not just a running back. He is a champion, a leader, and a legend. In his final season with the Michigan Wolverines, he fulfilled his promise of bringing home the national championship trophy, something that had eluded the program for decades. In this blog, we will explore how Corum’s performance in the title game against Washington was the culmination of his hard work, dedication, and passion for the game. We will also look back at his journey to the top, from his freshman year in 2020, when Michigan had a dismal 2-4 season, to his senior year in 2023, when he broke the season touchdowns record and became the offensive MVP of the national championship. Corum’s story is one of inspiration, perseverance, and excellence. As he said after the game, “We said we had unfinished business, so I’ll leave y’all with this: business is finished.”
A Rocky Start and a Turning Point
Blake Corum’s journey at the University of Michigan was anything but smooth sailing from the beginning. As a freshman, he had concerns about his decision to join the Wolverines. The team was struggling, coming off a disappointing 2-4 season, and head coach Jim Harbaugh was feeling the heat. In fact, Harbaugh had his salary cut in half after that dismal season. The program had lost its way, and Harbaugh was searching for his coaching identity.
"We changed the culture, and after that, man, we just started rolling."
Blake Corum talks about the journey from 2-4 as a freshman to national champion as a senior. pic.twitter.com/2jbCbWSwb3
— Michigan On BTN (@MichiganOnBTN) January 9, 2024
However, it was players like Corum who played a pivotal role in reshaping Michigan’s football fortunes. The Wolverines needed a fresh start, and they got it through hard work and determination. Harbaugh made strategic coaching hires, including the addition of Michigan legend Mike Hart as the running backs coach. The team refocused on a ground-and-pound offensive approach and a commitment to physicality. What was once just a collection of individuals became a cohesive team that would ultimately turn their fortunes around.
Building a Legacy of Excellence
Blake Corum’s impact on the Michigan football program extended far beyond his on-field achievements. He quickly established himself as one of the most special players in the program’s history, leaving an indelible mark on and off the field. With two fourth-quarter touchdowns in the national championship game, Corum not only sealed the victory but also solidified his legacy as a playmaker who made crucial plays when it mattered most.
Throughout his career, Corum set records, including both single-season and all-time records for rushing touchdowns. He exemplified the idea that playmakers have to step up in critical moments, and he did so consistently throughout his time with the Wolverines. His remarkable contributions to Michigan football are a testament to his dedication and skill.
The Journey to National Champions
The journey to becoming national champions was a gradual process for Blake Corum and his Michigan teammates. They faced challenges, including overcoming a loss to Ohio State in 2021 and falling short in the playoffs. In 2022, a knee injury sidelined Corum and disrupted his Heisman-caliber campaign. However, the setback only fueled his determination to return and achieve greatness with the Wolverines.
Corum’s decision to postpone his NFL dreams and return to Michigan for another season was a pivotal moment. Many of his veteran teammates, including key players like Trevor Keegan, Zak Zinter, Kris Jenkins, Junior Colson, and Mikey Sainristil, made the same choice. Their collective commitment to the team and their shared goal of winning a national championship were unwavering.
In a triumphant moment, Corum was named Offensive MVP of the national championship game, rushing for 134 yards and scoring his 57th and 58th career touchdowns. As he stood on stage with the national trophy and a shower of maize-and-blue confetti, Corum delivered a powerful message: “When we decided to come back — it was a lot of us — we said we had unfinished business. So I’ll leave y’all with this: business is finished!”
Blake Corum’s journey with the Michigan Wolverines embodies resilience, teamwork, and the pursuit of excellence. He leaves a lasting legacy as a legend in Michigan football history, with the business of winning a national championship now completed.
“Business Is Finished” Merchandise
One of the most visible expressions of support for Blake Corum’s statement is the range of merchandise that has emerged. T-shirts, caps, hoodies, and other apparel bearing the slogan “Business Is Finished” have flooded the market. Fans proudly sport these items, not only as a symbol of their allegiance to the team but also as a reflection of the Wolverines’ commitment to finishing their business on the field.