'Michigan Matters' Exclusive: Lewand's Glad Harbaugh's Gone From NFL
University of Michigan head football coach Jim Harbaugh explains why he is living his dream in Ann Arbor. He also talks about the Wolverines and offers insights on the Lions.
Detroit Lions President Tom Lewand, a U-M alum, also is glad Harbaugh is out of the NFL as coach and no longer a threat to his team.
Both men took time out before the official kick off of their regular season to appear on "Michigan Matters" with Senior Producer/Host Carol Cain to discuss their teams, their jobs and the community.
Harbaugh, a star quarterback for U-M, watched his dad, Jack Harbaugh, coach there years earlier.
Harbaugh was head coach of the San Francisco 49ers when he decided to leave the NFL and return to college football.
"I wanted to be like my dad in every way possible including being part of the coaching staff in some form," said Harbaugh. "Now, I get to live that dream."
Lewand was asked whether he was happier Harbaugh was returning to his alma mater as head coach, or happier he is leaving the NFL to do so.
"I'm happier he's at Michigan and will do great work there. And I'm glad to not be competing again him!" Lewand said with a smile.
Coming off an 11-5 season, Lewand has high hopes for the Lions this season.
An important factor will be the ongoing development of quarterback Matthew Stafford.
"Matthew is as competitive a person as we have on this team," Lewand said. "He wants to be great. We have confidence he can do it. We sometimes lose sight he just turned 27 but has been in the league seven years."
Also appearing on "Michigan Matters" to share thoughts about the Lions, U-M and MSU football teams, the Tigers and Pistons is Coach Ron English, Cliff Russell and Terry Foster, heard on 97.1 The Ticket each weekday.
Watch "Michigan Matters" 11:30 am Sundays on CBS 62.