At the 93rd annual Michigan Football Bust Monday night, one theme resonated with all of the seniors: 2013 didn't go quite as they expected.
"The season hasn't gone the way we'd planned, as you can see," defensive tackle Jibreel Black said. "But we still stuck together."
After being ranked No. 17 in the preseason polls and jumping out to a 5-0 start, Michigan appeared to be the favorite in the Big Ten Legends Division; but a 2-5 finish landed it in fifth place and heading to the Buffalo Wild Wings Bowl.
Despite the tough second half, the banquet was full of moments that put the significance of one football season in perspective. 1997 National Champion Brian Griese gave an honorary speech, Jeremy Gallon was awarded the team MVP and 40-year equipment manager Jon Falk shared some special memories before stepping down.
These three men represent how achievements, fame and longevity can lift a program, but the most lasting impression was left by perhaps the quietest man in the room.
"As a coach, people inspire you," Head Coach Brady Hoke said. "And Quinton [Washington] has done that to me... Because of the things he's overcome."
Washington, one of the final seniors to speak to the several hundred Michigan fans in attendance, did so having played in 48 career games, many of them in front of over 100,000 screaming fans.
But for Washington, just a few years ago this small banquet crowd would have been more intimidating than any of the offensive linemen he lined up against. The fifth-year senior has struggled speaking in front of people his whole life, and that doesn't just include crowds.
"Coming here, it was hard for me to even pick up a phone," Washington said. "I couldn't order anything at a restaurant."
The South Carolina native struggled with things that seem natural to most, having to ask his parents to order for him at restaurants and dreading questions like 'what is your name?'
But after working with speech pathologist Dr. David Daly during his time at the University, Washington stepped up to the podium Monday night and gave thanks to his coaches, family and teammates just like the other 17 seniors. He saved Daly for last.
"I'd like to thank Dr. David Daly," said an emotional Washington, who has already graduated with a degree from Michigan.
"Working with him... He gave me a voice."
The seniors will line up for the Maize and Blue one final time against Kansas State on December 28th in Tempe, Arizona.
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