The college football season is upon us! The Associated Press released their preseason All Americans. As usual, Alabama, Georgia and Ohio State dominated the list but Michigan did have one player to make it. Kicker Jake Moody has been named a preseason All American.
Jake Moody’s Michigan Career
Jake Moody has had an excellent career at Michigan. He is perfect for extra points and has a field goal percentage of 81%. Last season, he posted a ridiculous 92% field goal percentage only missing 2 field goals for the entire season. He was a consensus All American in 2021 and the recipient of the Lou Garza award. He gives Michigan confidence at the kicker position which is not a luxury many teams have. His decision to return for this fifth year was a surprise to some but one Wolverines fans are very happy with.
Michigan’s Elite Special Teams
Michigan has an elite special teams unit. It isn’t just Jake Moody but the punting and kick returning as well. Fans often underestimate the impact that special teams has on a game. However, teams who have had poor special teams play can tell you the impact it has. Ask any Michigan fan about the impact one muffed punt can have on a season. Jake Moody gives the Wolverines confidence to finish drives with at least some points rather than having to go for it deep in opponents territory and possibly coming away with no points.
Other Big Ten Players as Preseason All Americans
Moody is 1 of 7 Big Ten players to be named preseason All Americans. Ohio State definitely takes a large portion of that pie but Iowa and Northwestern also have players on the list. It was interesting to see no other Michigan players on the list. The offensive line should be elite this season as well. The wild card on Michigan’s team is the receivers. Ronnie Bell is back from injury and could have a huge year receiving and returning punts and kicks.
Michigan is primed for a great season and Jake Moody is a key part of having success this season. It is great to see Jake Moody get the preseason All American nod.