Michigan Wolverines football is one of the most storied franchises in NCAA football history. The Wolverines claim 11 national championships, the most of any Big Ten school, and have produced some of the greatest QBs of all time.
From the early days of Benny Friedman to the modern era of Tom Brady, Wolverine quarterbacks have led the team to Big Ten championships, national titles, and individual accolades. These signal-callers have not only been brilliant on the field but have also become Big Blue legends.
Let’s take a look at the 12 greatest QBs in Michigan football history. We will consider their on-field accomplishments, their impact on the team, and their place in Michigan football history.
1. Rick Leach
Hailing from Ann Arbor, Rick Leach wasn’t just a Wolverines QB, he was a force of nature. He rewrote the record books, leading Michigan to three Big Ten titles and Rose Bowls.
His arm slung lasers with 3799 yards, while his legs devoured 2053 yards. Getting 3rd position in Heisman votes and All-American honors cemented his legendary status.
Though NFL riches beckoned, Leach chose baseball for Detroit Tigers, leaving behind a legacy as one of the greatest QBs Michigan ever witnessed.
2. Jim Harbaugh
From fiery QB to passionate coach, Jim Harbaugh’s legacy at Michigan stretches far beyond his clipboard days. Though his NFL career garnered respect, it’s his Wolverines tenure that truly shines.
In 1985, Harbaugh led Michigan to a 10-1-1 record and a Fiesta Bowl victory against Nebraska. His iconic 77-yard Hail Mary pass against Ohio State was a marvel.
Harbaugh’s leadership and clutch throw propelled Michigan to a Rose Bowl appearance in 1986. He finished third in Heisman voting and cemented his place as a Wolverines icon.
3. Chad Henne
From 2004 to 2007, Chad Henne displayed his gunslinger’s arm and unwavering leadership. He holds the school record for career passing yards (9,715) and TDs (87).
Henne guided Michigan to a Capital One Bowl victory over Tim Tebow’s Florida Gators in his final season and took Michigan to three Bowl appearances before.
After his stellar college career, Henne carved out a respectable 15-year NFL journey with the Dolphins and Chiefs. But his legacy will forever be tied to the Big House.
4. Tom Brady
Before becoming the NFL’s most decorated quarterback with seven Super Bowls, Tom Brady was honing his skills on the gridiron of Ann Arbor.
Though not always a starter, Brady’s two seasons as Michigan’s signal-caller saw him get wins in the Citrus and Orange Bowls, displaying his leadership and talent.
He accumulated over 2000 passing yards in each of his 1998 and 1999 seasons. He also found the end zone 20 times as a starter.
Tom’s journey from Big House underdog to NFL GOAT is an inspiration to athletes everywhere.
5. Harry Newman
Harry Newman led the Michigan Wolverines to three Big Ten titles and a national championship in 1932, etching his name in college football history.
Standing tall in the pocket, Newman’s fabulous accuracy and electrifying runs left defenses grasping at air. He was a dual-threat nightmare, making points with his arm and legs from 1930-1932.
His senior season was pure magic. Unanimously named an All-American, Newman also received the prestigious Douglas Fairbanks Trophy, the precursor to the Heisman, cementing his status as NCAA football’s king.
6. Denard Robinson
Denard Robinson left an indelible mark on Michigan football. From 2009 to 2012, he entertained with his dual-threat prowess, making records, and rewriting the Wolverines’ offensive playbook.
Robinson established the NCAA record for rushing yards by a quarterback (4,495) and the single-season record (1,702 in 2010). His 91 career TDs stand as a testament to his offensive dominance.
He embodied the Michigan football’s fighting spirit, leading the Wolverines to electrifying victories over rivals like Ohio State and Notre Dame.
7. Benny Friedman
Benny Friedman was a versatile QB who revolutionized the passing game. From 1924 to 1926, he captained the Wolverines, leading them to wins and national recognition.
For his offensive dominance and leadership, Friedman received the 1926 Big Ten Player of the Year and Consensus All-American two times (1925, 1926).
Friedman’s impact transcended the field. He shattered barriers, becoming one of the first Jewish players to achieve great acclaim in college football.
Beyond Michigan, Friedman’s NFL career was equally entertaining. He also led the league in passing touchdowns with 66 till his retirement.
8. Elvis Grbac
Elvis Grbac reigned over the Big House from 1990 to 1992. His cannon arm and pinpoint accuracy shredded defenses, leading Michigan to two Big Ten titles and three Rose Bowl appearances.
He made Michigan’s passing records in his 4-year collegiate journey, gathering 5859 yards, 754 attempts, and 64 TDs. He connected with his Heisman-winning teammate, Desmond Howard, on countless occasions
After Michigan, Grbac’s talent took him to the NFL, where he played eight seasons, winning Super Bowl XXIX with the San Francisco 49ers.
9. Dennis Franklin
From 1972 to 1974, Dennis Franklin led the Wolverines to three consecutive Big Ten titles, exemplifying his calm leadership and strategic mind.
Dennis etched his name in Michigan Wolverines history not just for his impressive throws and game-winning plays, but as the first African American quarterback to lead the team.
His leadership led to a phenomenal 30-2-1 record during his starting years in Michigan. Franklin excelled in both passing (2285 yards) and running (1212 yards), keeping defensive players on their toes.
10. Brian Griese
The 1997 Michigan Wolverines saw an undefeated season with a National Championship victory. At the helm, orchestrating every play with superb accuracy and unwavering leadership stood Brian Griese.
Griese’s laser throws found Jerame Tuman and Tai Streets in stride, his composure calmed the nerves in tense moments, and his unwavering belief ignited the entire team.
His 1997 stat was marvelous with 2,042 passing yards, 14 touchdowns, and a First-Team All-Big Ten selection.
The QB got drafted by the Broncos in the 3rd round and claimed a Super Bowl ring in XXXIII.
11. Bob Timberlake
Bob Timberlake, the towering 6’4″ quarterback, wasn’t just great; he was a legend. He guided the Michigan Wolverines to a dominant 9-1 season in 1964, capping it off with an electrifying victory in the Rose Bowl.
Timberlake’s arm was a cannon, launching Michigan’s offense to new heights. His 1,579 passing yards were a sight to behold, and his leadership on the field was undeniable.
He earned the coveted Chicago Tribune Silver Football as the Big Ten’s Most Valuable Player. He also received fourth place in the Heisman Trophy voting.
A four-year starter, John Navarre etched his name in Michigan football lore with his slingshotted spirals, shattering records with his cannon arm.
He orchestrated the greatest comeback in school history, erasing a 21-point deficit against Minnesota. Under his leadership, the Wolverines won the Big Ten title in 2003 and clashed with USC in the Rose Bowl.
Though his NFL journey may not mirror his maize and blue career, Navarre’s legacy thrives in Ann Arbor, where his name always echoes through the Big House.