The year Michigan became the first Top 5 team to fall out of the AP Poll

History · Published 7 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: In 2007, a powerhouse Michigan Wolverines team suffered a historic collapse. After starting with a stunning upset by an FCS opponent, they faced a barrage of criticism and record-breaking losses that tested the limits of their program's resilience before a dramatic postseason redemption.

The 2007 season began with a shock to the college football establishment. Ranked No. 5 in the preseason, Michigan suffered a 34–32 loss to Appalachian State, an FCS team. This marked the first time in AP Poll history that a Top 5 ranked team fell out of the rankings as a result of a single game. The defeat was sealed by a blocked field goal with just six seconds remaining in front of 109,218 fans.

The following weeks were even more tumultuous. Michigan suffered its worst home loss since 1935, a 32–32 blowout against Oregon where they were outscored significantly and faced calls for head coach Lloyd Carr's resignation. The team struggled with injuries to senior quarterback Chad Henne and internal policy violations that led to the dismissal of three players in March. Despite these hurdles, the Wolverines managed to navigate a grueling schedule—ranked as the 15th toughest in the country—to secure a 9–4 record.

The season concluded with a narrative of redemption. On January 1, 2008, Michigan upset the defending national champion No. 9 Florida in the Capital One Bowl, winning 41–35. The game was notable for several reasons: it took place just before Lloyd Carr's retirement announcement, and it featured sophomore Tim Tebow, who had recently won the Heisman Trophy. While Mike Hart was a workhorse for the offense, his season ended on a bittersweet note as he lost two fumbles against Florida—a rarity in his four-year career.

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