Desmond Howard Points to Jumpman for Michigan's Success

Desmond Howard believes Jordan Brand is responsible for the Michigan Wolverines' success in football.

Sports Illustrated aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

Fans love Desmond Howard not just because he is a college football legend and iconic television personality but because he always offers unique insight into the sport. Leading up to tonight's NCAA College Football National Championship Game, Howard offered an interesting reason for the recent success of the Michigan Wolverines.

During ESPN's pregame show, Howard picked his alma mater to defeat the Washington Huskies. That was not a huge surprise. But his reasoning definitely resonated with sneakerheads everywhere. Howard credited Jordan Brand for the sharp turnaround in Michigan's football program.

"I believe it all started when they (Michigan) signed with Jumpman because when they did that, it gave them credibility with a lot of recruits they wanted. And I think that Michigan tonight will be the first football team, sponsored by Jumpman, to win the National Championship."

A detailed look at the Jumpman logo on a Michigan player's cleat / © Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports

Howard's rationale is correct. Jordan Brand moves the needle with recruits, and no team donning the Jumpman logo has ever won the National Championship. Every winner in the CFP era has been a Nike-sponsored school. Washington can make history as well, as they are sponsored by adidas.

In 2016, Michigan signed a 15-year, $174 million contract with Nike and Jordan Brand. The historic deal made the Wolverines the first football team to wear Jumpman apparel and footwear. Since then, nine other schools have followed suit.

While the football team is often treated to player-exclusive gear, fans can also get in on the fun. Online shoppers can stock up on Michigan's officially licensed Jordan Brand gear on the Nike website. Stay locked into FanNationKicks.com for all your footwear news.

J.J. McCarthy Gets Rose Bowl-Inspired Air Jordan Cleats