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Jim Harbaugh promotes analyst Fred Jackson to running backs coach temporarily following Mike Hart's collapse

On3-Social-Profile_GRAYby: On3 Staff Report10/10/22
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Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh calls out instructions to his team in a win over Indiana on Oct. 8, 2022. (Michael Hickey / Getty Images)

Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh has addressed the team’s plans going forward following a scary incident on Saturday in a win over Indiana, with assistant coach Mike Hart collapsing on the sidelines.

The Wolverines have sought relief from the NCAA and have been granted it, allowing the temporary promotion of a new on-field running backs coach.

“Right, so Mike, I think he issued a statement today,” Harbaugh said Monday. “He’s back in Ann Arbor, feeling better, hopes to rejoin the team soon. We’ll make Fred Jackson; we’ve got a waiver to allow Fred Jackson to coach until Mike comes back.”

Jackson returned to Michigan this offsason after spending 22 years with the program as an assistant coach from 1992-2014.

He returned in a role as an offensive analyst this offseason but obviously has the coaching chops to step in seamlessly with Hart now sidelined and focused on his recovery. Jackson served as the program’s running backs coach from 1992-2014, taking on various other roles like offensive coordinator, assistant head coach and associate head coach during that time.

Mike Hart collapse stunned onlookers in Ann Arbor

In the first quarter of Michigan’s game against Indiana over the weekend, Mike Hart collapsed on the sideline and had to be carted off the field on a stretcher.

He was responsive as he was carted off the field before being taken by ambulance to IU Hospital.

Hart released a statement on Monday morning addressing his status.

“I would like to thank everyone for their support, messages and prayers. I am truly grateful for the trainers and paramedics, the doctors and nurses at IU Hospital, Michigan’s team doctors, coaching staff, players and Coach Harbaugh. I would also like to thank IU’s football staff and team doctors. I will never forget everyone’s kindness and generosity,” wrote Hart. “My wife and I are thankful to be surrounded by such incredible people.

“Health-wise, I am back in Ann Arbor and things are trending in a positive direction. I look forward to rejoining our team soon.”