The Michigan football player known for a tense moment in the Rose Bowl against Alabama, where he recovered a muffed punt, is now seeking a new college opportunity for his remaining three years of eligibility. Jake Thaw, a walk-on who also plays as a receiver, has announced his entry into the NCAA transfer portal through social media.
Thaw, standing at 6-foot-1 and weighing 191 pounds, gained recognition for his recovery of a muffed punt in the final minute of Michigan’s win over Alabama. Despite fumbling inside his own 10-yard line, he quickly retrieved the ball at the 1, preventing a safety or potential Alabama touchdown. This crucial play allowed Michigan to run out the clock, forcing overtime and ultimately securing victory with a Blake Corum touchdown and a fourth-down stop.
In a social media post, Thaw expressed gratitude to those who have supported him and acknowledged his mistakes on the big stage. He also shared that he has entered the transfer portal with three years of eligibility remaining, and his recruitment is open.
During the 2023 season, Thaw served as Michigan’s primary punt returner, totaling 16 returns for 101 yards. However, Semaj Morgan took over the role later in the year. Following Morgan’s struggles against Alabama, Thaw was placed back as the punt returner for the critical moments.
On a related note, Michigan sophomore receiver Darrius Clemons also entered the transfer portal on the same day. Clemons, a former top-150 recruit from Oregon, has had limited opportunities, catching four passes for 40 yards in his first two seasons.
Thaw and Clemons are the first Michigan players to enter the transfer portal after the national title game. Other players, including running backs C.J. Stokes and Leon Franklin, cornerback Cam Calhoun, and linebacker/baseball player Joey Velazquez, entered the portal before the Wolverines’ Rose Bowl semifinal against the Crimson Tide.
The transfer portal is open exclusively for Michigan and Washington players until January 13, following a new NCAA rule providing participants in New Year’s Six Bowl games an extra five-day window after their game to enter the portal. The portal closed on January 2.
