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Bussin' With The Boys donation to Champions Circle the latest example of Michigan alums helping with NIL

clayton-sayfieby: Clayton Sayfie17 hours agoCSayf23
Will Compton Michigan jersey
Will Compton lost a bet to Taylor Lewan and had to wear a Michigan jersey. (Photo courtesy Champions Circle)

The Bussin’ Bowl is one of college football’s newest trophy games, with Michigan and Nebraska fighting for a prize three times over the last four seasons. The Wolverines are 3-0 with the bus on the line, including winning 30-27 in Lincoln Sept. 20.

More than just a trophy was on the line that day, with the hosts of the popular Bussin’ With The Boys podcast — former Michigan first-team All-American Taylor Lewan and former Nebraska linebacker and captain Will Compton — placing a hefty wager on the game.

The loser, Compton (Nebraska) had to concede that Michigan was the true 1997 national champion, and the podcast would donate $50,000 to the NIL collective of the winner.

Champions Circle, Michigan’s official collective, announced Thursday that the donation has been made.

“We’re thrilled to welcome our newest donor, [Will Compton],” Champions Circle’s social media accounts posted. “After another loss in the Bussin’ Bowl, the Nebraska football alum has stepped up big time with a major contribution to Michigan NIL.”

Champions Circle also posted in promotion of the podcast’s merchandise for the Bussin’ Bowl, including hats and tee shirts.

Michigan alums stepping up to boost NIL efforts

With the help of Compton and his podcast, Lewan is just the latest Michigan football alum to come to the aid of the Wolverines’ NIL efforts. Earlier this month, former Heisman Trophy winner and national champion Charles Woodson‘s Woodson Whiskey Brand announced a partnership with Champions Circle for a limited edition bourbon lineup benefitting student athletes in Ann Arbor.

A portion of the proceeds from every bottle will benefit Michigan’s NIL opportunities, bolstering the resources needed to keep supporting the student-athletes within the program.

“Michigan fans have always shown up for their team. Now they can raise a glass and know they’re helping the next generation of Wolverines chase their dreams,” Woodson said.

Additionally, former Michigan two-time All-American tight end and current Big Ten Network lead analyst Jake Butt has been instrumental in supporting Champions Circle with his time and energy. Butt has been involved in content creation and brand deals with current players as they pursue commercial business endeavors off the field.