Jim Harbaugh is a football lifer so he understands just how hard it is to get to where he and his team are currently at. He knows that you can’t take any team lightly and certainly recognizes that Washington is a formidable foe.
On Sunday morning, Harbaugh and Washington head coach Kalen DeBoer took to the stage to answer questions and both men had some solid answers and responses. Harbaugh was, of course, asked about his future and potential departure for the NFL. In true Jim Harbaugh fashion, he ignored that question and praised DeBoer and Washington instead.
“Can I talk a bit about the Washington team for a second?” Rhetorically, Harbaugh questioned the assembly. “I am aware that some are attempting to frame this as a quarterback matchup between their team and our secondary. That is only one example. It’s a diligent group. They play a very strong offensive line. Defence is hard and physical. a busy, productive secondary. The lessons they’ve learned, many of which originate from the linebackers as well. Excellent running game. A unique quarterback possesses the “it” factor in every aspect. I think there are a lot of similarities between the two teams in that aspect. We also consider ourselves to be a very thorough football team.”
In addition, Harbaugh has nothing but praise for DeBoer, who has led Washington to victory with an amazing record of 104-11 overall.
“The staff of Coach Kalen DeBoer. Really nothing but admiration for the work that Coach and they have completed. A truly amazing coach. I’ve kept up with your work. Wonderful work at Fresno State. And what you’ve accomplished at Washington in a short amount of time is just incredible,” Harbaugh remarked of the highly accomplished head coach.
You know Harbaugh wanted to hear DeBoer’s positive remarks about Michigan, particularly his praise for the team’s physicality and run game. It’s time to get onto the pitch and take each other on now that the small talk has ended. Respect was evident between Harbaugh and DeBoer, as Harbaugh offered one final observation about the Huskies as a team.
“My congratulations go out to Washington’s coaching staff, coach DeBoer, and the players they have.” They play hard and have a connection that’s evident. They are resilient. It’s a fantastic football team,” Harbaugh remarked.
