Henne throws caution to the wind

QB Chad Henne (junior) is Michigan's fearless leader on the offensive side of the ball. He is often referred to as the "Field General" as he has exhibited great command and poise while directing the offense. Henne has significant experience as he has started every game of his college career. The OSU game will be his 36th consecutive start as the Wolverines' quarterback. Michigan has amassed a 27-8 record during the span Henne has been the starting quarterback. That record matches up favorably against the records posted by past great Wolverine quarterbacks such as Steve Smith (26-10 from 1981-1983) and Rick Leach (28-6-2 in his first 3 seasons from 1975-1977).

Although the Wolverines are 0-2 against the Buckeyes during Henne's tenure, Henne has had considerable statistical success in Ohio State games. In 2004, Henne became Michigan's first true freshman QB to start a game at Ohio State. (Note: Leach started as a true frosh in '75 but in Michigan Stadium). In that '04 game, Henne completed 27 of 54 passes for 328 yards with 2 touchdowns and 2 interceptions. Henne's 54 pass attempts were the third highest single game total in school history. In 2005 against OSU, Henne went 25 of 36 (69.4%) for 223 yards and a touchdown at Michigan Stadium. Offensive Coordinator Mike DeBord's game plan for 2006 will likely have Henne throwing the ball approximately 25-30 times versus the Buckeyes. It should be noted that Henne has thrown 30 or more passes in a game only twice this season (Penn State: 30 passes; Iowa: 33 passes).

Henne's greatest strength is his ability to manage the game for the Wolverines. He plays well under pressure (see the game at South Bend vs. ND and the white out in Happy Valley vs. Penn State), he doesn't turn the ball over and he makes throws with pinpoint accuracy. Fans can't ask for more out of their quarterback. Go Blue!

*Note: Photo of Chad Henne (7) by David Guralnick/The Detroit News