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When you think of college football, you don’t often think of the college towns associated with each team. But that is exactly what Sports Illustrated did, and the outlet put the University of Michigan and the city of Ann Arbor in their top 10 of both college programs and college towns.
They slated Michigan at No. 3 overall in top programs overall, behind Alabama and Ohio State. It’s hard to argue this ranking given the last 20 years and lack of championships.
Here’s their breakdown:
“The Wolverines haven’t won a championship since 1997, but it feels like Jim Harbaugh has the program on the cusp of such a feat. The problem? No. 2 on this list is standing in the way (the Wolverines have lost seven straight and 14 of the last 15 in the rivalry series).” They didn’t mention being the winningest program in college football with 953 victories since 1879. For those old enough to remember the 1980’s and 1990’s, they were not only competing for championships but they were on television during the Bo era. Their explanation didn’t include the stats of other success with Heisman winners and Big Ten Championships.
Penn State and Nebraska also made the top 10 on the top programs list, which can be seen in its entirety by clicking here.
Ann Arbor also made the list of top 10 college football towns, coming in at No. 4.
“The University of Michigan itself is one of the most picturesque college campuses in America, and the town surrounding it offers great food, festivals and museums. Ann Arbor boasts tons of parks, and outdoor activities are easy to come by in the warmer months. In the fall and winter, Michigan football and basketball are enough to keep even a reluctant sports fan entertained. Plus, the town is just a quick drive away from Detroit and all the benefits of a larger city.”
Madison, Wisconsin was No. 1 on the list, and Ann Arbor was the only other campus in the Big Ten. Here is the full list.
If you’ve had the opportunity to be in Ann Arbor for a game day, you know it’s an experience unlike anything else. The largest stadium, the tailgates, rich tradition and the background of campus cannot be duplicated. It’s an electric scene, especially when the game ends in victory.
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