Written by ERIC OLSON, AP College Football Writer

HOUSTON

Michigan seemed poised to dominate Washington in the College Football Playoff championship on Monday evening, according to reports from Houston.

However, the Wolverines had a slow pace until they orchestrated a 71-yard drive, securing two touchdowns and taking a 34-13 win in the fourth quarter.

Blake Corum, Donovan Edwards, and the offensive linemen appeared ready to quickly defeat the Huskies. The duo led a rushing attack that produced 174 yards in the opening quarter.

Edwards’ initial two rushes resulted in touchdowns of 41 and 46 yards respectively, while Corum had a 59-yard run that led to a field goal and extended the lead to 17-3 by the end of the quarter.

According to Sportradar, the only team besides Georgia to have three runs of 40-plus yards in a playoff game was Michigan, who accomplished this feat during a half.

In the first three drives, the Wolverines gained 235 yards on 17 plays.

The following seven attempts resulted in a mere 115 yards on 29 plays, including three three-and-outs.

Washington made changes to address the issue of open spaces in the center, which allowed Corum and Edwards to capitalize on in the initial quarter. Additionally, offensive coordinator Sherrone Moore opted for a more cautious approach once the Wolverines gained the advantage.

“We started off really hot. Everything was clicking,” quarterback J.J. McCarthy said. “I feel like we got to points in the game we were beating ourselves. I was missing throws, I was missing some reads.”

Washington failed to take advantage, and Michigan’s offense woke up when they regained possession with less than 10 minutes remaining. J.J. McCarthy completed passes to Colston Loveland for 41 yards and to Roman Wilson for 12, leading to a 3-yard touchdown run by Corum.

Corum emphasized the importance of playmakers taking initiative and not relying on others to make plays. He praised the team’s overall effort, with many individuals stepping up and making plays.

Due to their quick start, Michigan was able to end the game with a season-high of 303 rushing yards and a total of 443 yards.

Corum ended the game with 134 yards and scored two touchdowns by carrying the ball 21 times. Edwards also contributed, gaining 104 yards and scoring two TDs with just six carries. This was the first instance of two players on the same team surpassing 100 yards rushing in a CFP championship game.

Fans watching from home complained on social media that Michigan’s offensive line got away with several holding calls. The flags never came, and by night’s end, the Wolverines were holding the national championship trophy.

Edwards had a comeback in the game, showcasing strong performances towards the end of the previous season while Corum was sidelined due to injury.

Prior to this game, Edwards had a season best of 52 yards on 10 rushes against Penn State.

Corum expressed his excitement for Donovan, feeling that he deserved it. He also noted that Donovan is back.

Edwards’ roommate, McCarthy, has acknowledged that Edwards has been facing mental challenges due to the difficulty in accumulating yards this season.

McCarthy expressed that being aware of all the challenges he faces off-camera and witnessing his character on a regular basis, this was the perfect opportunity for him to shine and reveal his true self to the world.

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Source: wralsportsfan.com