Appalachian State Shocks the Nation

As the leaves started to fall from the trees, college football season rushed through the air. To begin the season, the Michigan Wolverines were ready to avenge last season's late losses that ruined an otherwise successful season, to Ohio State and USC.

To begin the year, Michigan started off with FCS powerhouse Appalachian State. While the Mountaineers are a solid football team in their own right, they play in the FCS which is nowhere near the level of competition schools like Alabama, Ohio State, and Clemson go through. Michigan fans were ready to see what this year's team would yield. Michigan came into the season ranked #5 in the nation, and were considered possible contenders for the national championship game. Many FCS schools schedule these games because usually the FBS team pays them money that help fund their athletic programs and gain national exposure, even though the scores end in lopsided victories for the FBS schools. Michigan was extreme favorites to win the game, many betting lines didn’t even offer bets for this game for the belief it would be a mismatch. The Mountaineers also came into this game outnumber, as Michigan had an insane 22 more scholarship players than App. State. Michigan received the ball first and promptly marched down the field for a touchdown. App. State responded by launching a long touchdown pass to even up the score 7-7. By halftime, the Mountaineers increased their lead to 28-17, shocking everyone.

With 5 minutes left in the game, Michigan had stolen the lead with a 54 yard touchdown run. Michigan attempted a field goal with 1 minute left to try and extend their lead, but the attempt was blocked. App State drove 70 yards all the way to the endzone to take a 2 point lead late. Michigan was in position for another field goal attempt to win the game with only 6 seconds left. Words can not do justice with the result of the kick, so I think a gif would do just fine right about now.

Michigan was taken out of the rankings entirely with their hopes of winning a title ruined. Although Michigan would temporarily drop out of the rankings, they would end up at #18 and would beat Florida in the Capital One Bowl to finish their season 9-4. App. State would go on to win their 3rd consecutive FCS championship.