Michigan football appears to have regained its prominence — at least for the time being. Maybe that’s a good thing
for college football purists, who value tradition and legendary players.
The Wolverines certainly have their fair share of both. In terms of the latter, here are our choices for the 25 greatest
college football players in Michigan history. (Spoiler alert: Tom Brady won’t be on this list.
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/72298549/1245371924.0.jpg)
The great Heston began his college career at what is now known as San Jose State, when joined legendary coach
Fielding Yost. He was a major part of those dominant offensive Michigan teams from the early 1900s, that during his
four seasons at the school went 43-0-1 and outscored opponents 2,326-40. According to the school’s official records, Heston is Michigan’s all-time leader with 72 career touchdowns, though it’s also believed he totaled more.
Nicknamed the “Human Bullet” for his low-running style, the 155-pound Maulbetsch is another great among
Michigan halfbacks. Despite a serious ordeal with appendicitis during his run at Michigan, Maulbetsch was one of
the game’s best in 1914. Following appendix surgery, he regained his form in 1916. After his playing career,
Maulbetsch spent eight years as head football coach at what is now known as Oklahoma State University.
In the early 1990s, there weren’t many who enjoyed consistent college football success than Oosterbaan. A talented
two-way end for the Wolverines in the mid-1920s, Oosterbaan was a three-time All-American. In 1925, Oosterbaan
led the Big Ten with eight touchdowns. In addition to his stellar football success, Oosterbaan, who coached the
Michigan football team from 1948-’58, was also a standout basketball and baseball player for the Wolverines.
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/72298549/1245371924.0.jpg?w=1200&resize=1200,0&ssl=1)
