COLLEGE PARK, Md. – In a historic moment for college football, No. 3 Michigan secured its 1,000th win after defeating Maryland 31-24 on Saturday. The victory comes amid a series of controversies plaguing the Wolverines, including their coach, Jim Harbaugh, serving part of a three-game suspension. Offensive coordinator Sherrone Moore stepped in as acting head coach, leading the Wolverines to their milestone victory.

Michigan now leads the NCAA in wins, followed by Ohio State and Alabama with 963 and Texas and Notre Dame with 945. This win also marked Michigan’s 11th consecutive victory of the season, setting the stage for a showdown against the No. 2 Buckeyes in their regular-season finale next Saturday, the last game Harbaugh will miss as part of his suspension.

The milestone win was a bright spot in what has been a tumultuous time for Michigan, with off-field controversies including a legal dispute with the Big Ten and the firing of linebackers coach Chris Partridge for interference with the NCAA’s in-person scouting investigation. On the field, Michigan faced a tough game against Maryland, with their pass defense showing vulnerabilities against quarterback Taulia Tagovailoa, who exposed holes in the Wolverines’ defense.

Quarterback J.J. McCarthy also struggled, completing just 12 of 23 passes for 141 yards, and missing key opportunities, including a potential touchdown pass. Despite the challenges, the Wolverines remain determined to maintain their winning streak and tighten their play in the upcoming game against Ohio State.

The milestone victory is a testament to Michigan’s legacy in college football, but the team must address its vulnerabilities on both offense and defense as they prepare for the next game. The controversies off the field have not dampened the Wolverines’ spirit as they aim to finish the season strong and maintain their position as one of the top teams in college football history.