These days have been dark. Just two days ago, a Michigan legend was laid to rest on December 8. He was 79 and he deserves to be remembered as one of the best coaches the Wolverines ever had. The impact that he had on the U-M football team is nothing short of transformational. That’s why, even after all these years, he is held in high honor as Michigan and rivals alike come together to pay their last respect to Bobby Morrison.

Among several other programs, Bobby Morrison coached Michigan from 1987 to 2002, serving different roles. To pay their tribute, Michigan Football posted a photo of their beloved coach in Michigan gear on X on December 10. The caption reads, “We are saddened by the passing of former assistant coach Bob Morrison, a member of the staff from 1987-2002.” It didn’t take long for the post to gain the notice of rival Alabama GM Courtney Morgan who also penned down his sentiments saying, “RIP Coach Morrison! A great man. You will be missed.”

It hits differently for former Michigan player and current NFL analyst Jay Feely, who had first-hand experience under his coaching. He wrote, “Bobby coached me for 3 yrs at Michigan. He loved our school. He was a good man and will be missed.” Michigan WR coach Ron Bellamy also got on the comments to give his respect as he wrote, “RIP Coach. I’m going to miss you!” 

From 1987, Bobby Morrison worked for Bo at Michigan, first coaching linebackers and the O-line, then recruiting from 1995 onwards. As the recruitment coordinator, he compiled a top-ten recruiting class for the Wolverines for seven of eight years. They even hit the No. 1 rank in 1998. He retired in 2002 after bringing in 53 standout recruits to Ann Arbor, 19 of whom advanced to the professional level, including NFL GOAT Tom Brady. But Michigan’s not the only school grieving.

Bobby Morrison leaves a void in college football 

Bobby Morrison’s death impacted not just Michigan football, who is continuing his recruiting legacy. Growing up, Bobby Morrison played football, basketball, and baseball. But he stuck to football and served as the linebacker at Niles McKinley High School. Then he started as a starting LB at Findlay College before pursuing a coaching career that would span 35 years over eight different schools. 

The Ohio native is a familiar face with several other programs, including Bowling Green State University, University of Virginia, William & Mary, Virginia Military Institute, North Carolina State University, LSU, and Navy. While the stints in these schools don’t measure up to what he did in Ann Arbor, he’s still very much a part of them too.

The sweet soul was happiest at his family cottage on Lake Temagami. But we believe he’s in a better place now. Morrison’s family will host a celebration of life to honor him at Nie Family Funeral Home in Ann Arbor.