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.
