Michigan quarterback Devin Gardner to wear No. 98 for the rest of his Michigan career
Michigan quarterback Devin Gardner wore No. 98 during the Wolverines’ game against Notre Dame to honor Tom Harmon, Michigan’s first Heisman Trophy winner. Harmon, who won the award in 1940, was honored before the game. His son Mark Harmon, of NCIS fame, was there for the ceremony.
Think it looks cool to see a quarterback in a defensive lineman’s number? Well, get used to it. Michigan announced that Gardner, who was No. 12, would wear the number for the duration of his career in Ann Arbor. It’s an ode to the man many consider the greatest player in Michigan football lore.
Harmon rushed for 2,134 career yards, had 100 completions for 1,304 yards and 16 touchdowns and played on defense and special teams.
While we couldn't quite pinpoint the last time a quarterback wore a number higher than 20 (maybe Boston College's Doug Flutie in the early 80s), it's definitely not something that happens often. The No. 98 is usually reserved for a defensive lineman.
Gardner helped Michigan defeat Notre Dame 41-30 and completed 21-of-33 passes for 294 yards and four touchdowns. He also rushed for 82 yards and a score.
It’s fair to assume Gardner won’t be playing defense or special teams any time soon, but perhaps he can follow in Harmon’s footsteps by bringing home the Heisman Trophy.
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