Both on the field and on the sidelines, the University of Michigan will be well represented this weekend at Super Bowl XLIV in Miami. The New Orleans Saints and the Indianapolis Colts each boast two players who took the field at Michigan Stadium, and the Saints also have a pair of assistant coaches who wore the Maize and Blue.
Among those who will suit up for NFC champion New Orleans on Sunday are Jonathan Goodwin, who played at Michigan from 1999-2002, and now starts at center for the Saints. Goodwin helped the New Orleans offensive line earn "Most Valuable Protectors" honors, as chosen by legendary coach and broadcaster John Madden, in recognition of their role in keeping opposing defenders away from star quarterback Drew Brees. While Adrian Arrington doesn't start for the Saints, the former Michigan wideout was on the active roster for the NFC Championship game against the Minnesota Vikings.
AFC champion Indianapolis will have Mike Hart in their lineup as a backup running back. Hart enjoyed a stellar career for the Wolverines from 2004-07, and holds the Michigan record for most games (28) of 100+ yards rushing. On the defensive side, cornerback Marlin Jackson will be able to lend moral support to his teammates, but won't be able to participate in the game, as he hurt his knee early in the 2009 NFL regular season and was placed on injured reserve.
Rounding out the cast of those with U-M ties, Mike Mallory played linebacker for the Wolverines from 1982-1985, and is now assistant special teams coach for New Orleans, while Terry Malone, who worked as offensive coordinator and offensive line coach at Michigan, coaches the Saints' tight ends.
Learn more about these and other Michigan Wolverines involved in this season's NFL playoffs.
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