Despite Injuries, Michigan Football Leading Tackler Is Expected To Play Against Alabama
Michigan is set to play in its biggest game of the year in less than a week when the Wolverines face Alabama in the Rose Bowl. The Wolverines are looking to win for the first time in the College Football Playoff semi-final game.
And while one of the top defensive players is facing some unknown injuries -- he is set on playing.
Linebacker Junior Colson has been spotted wearing a cast on his hand since facing Purdue back on Nov. 4. Recently, when Colson met with the media, he was wearing two casts. But the leading tackler says that won't hold him out against the Crimson Tide on New Year's Day.
“I think they’re still going to be in the cast for the game,” Colson told reporters. “They’re still in the cast now. I’ll be fine though.”
During his three years on the team, Colson has never missed a football game. His 79 tackles lead the Wolverines' defense. Colson also led the team last season with 101.
The middle linebacker was recently named the toughest player on the team during Michigan's award ceremony. He's adamant that injured hands won't hold him back in the Rose Bowl.
“You’re still always going to be banged up a little bit, because that’s football,” Colson said. “You’re never 100 percent unless it’s summertime. I feel great. I think our whole defense — our whole team — feels great right now heading into this game. We’re excited. Everything else is secondary.”
Colson may be a junior, and at Michigan -- you must be a senior in order to be a captain -- but he is still one of the many leaders on the Michigan defense. Defensive coordinator Jesse Minter credits Colson's attitude and commitment to staying on the field despite adversity that might be in his way.
“The thing I love about Junior is his willingness to sacrifice; his willingness to lay it all on the line for his teammates, Michigan, for this program,” Minter said. “The guys have seen the stuff that he’s dealt with this year.
As the man in the middle for the Michigan defense, Colson may be tasked with keeping an eye on Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe. Tackling will come at a premium against the Tide with how shifty the Alabama quarterback is. He isn't only a strong-armed passer, but Milroe can beat you with his legs. This season he rushed for 468 yards and a team-high 12 touchdowns.
Minter believes Colson is as sure of a tackler as they come for the Wolverines and he's excited to see him out there with his teammates when Michigan takes the field in Pasadena.
“He’s really athletic, really big, really fast, and still stayed as a really sure tackler," Minter said. So, I’m excited to see him go out there and have a chance to play against these guys.”
