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Jim Harbaugh confirms Maurice Hurst will play in Outback Bowl
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Maurice Hurst is expected to suit up for Michigan in the Outback Bowl on Jan. 1, Jim Harbaugh confirmed on Wednesday.
Shortly after the season, Hurst was asked whether he would player in the bowl game or if he would sit out to avoid any injury as he prepares for the 2018 NFL Draft, and the star defensive tackle was still up in the air. But he’s apparently come to a decision, and will play in his final game as a Wolverine.
When Harbaugh was asked on Hurst’s status, he responded with a matter of fact answer.
“Yes, he’s playing,” Harbaugh told reporters on Wednesday evening. “That’s what he’s told us…He wants to do what’s best for Mo Hurst but he also wants to do what’s best for the team.”
Hurst was a star on the defensive line for Michigan this season, receiving All-B1G and All-American nominations for his efforts in 2017. He finished the year with 13.5 tackles for loss and five sacks. He also had 59 total stops.
When he met with reporters in December, Hurst said that he spoke with several former players and family members for advice on a decision, including former Michigan tight end Jake Butt. Butt, of course, was injured in the Wolverines’ Orange Bowl game against Florida State. Though the tight end was drafted by the Denver Broncos, he missed the entire 2017 season.
Michigan will play South Carolina in the Outback Bowl on Jan. 1, 2018.
Dustin grew up in the heart of Big Ten country and has been in sports media since 2010. He has been covering Big Ten football since 2014. You can follow him on Twitter: @SchutteCFB