Michigan Football News: What is the Macguffin in College Football and Why do the Wolverines Hold It?

The Michigan Wolverines are set to kick off their title defense this weekend against the Fresno State Bulldogs at the Big House. This marks their first game since winning the national championship in January, and it will be the debut for new head coach Sherrone Moore.

As the reigning champions, the Wolverines are not just celebrating their championship win; they also hold a unique title known as the Macguffin . This fictional award has roots in college football history, tracing back to the sport's very first game between Rutgers and Princeton in 1869. The term was popularized in 2022, but it represents a tradition where the award is passed from one winning team to another.

To claim the Macguffin, a team simply needs to defeat the current holder. Michigan earned this title after their championship victory in January. The Macguffin serves as a fun way for fans to engage with college football, especially since not every team can claim a national title each year.

Michigan has a storied history with the Macguffin, having first won it in 1918. Over the years, they’ve had their ups and downs with the award, including a long wait to reclaim it after losing it to rivals like Ohio State and USC. The Wolverines regained the Macguffin after their national championship win, and fans are eager to see how long they can hold onto it.

Related: Michigan Football News: Moore's Contract Still in Limbo as Season Opener Approaches

Looking ahead, Michigan faces tough competition, particularly from teams like Texas and Ohio State. The Wolverines will need to navigate a challenging schedule if they want to keep the Macguffin in their possession. Their first test comes against Fresno State, and the outcome could set the tone for the rest of the season.