D is for Desmond Howard

It is Desmond Howard's fault that I am a huge Michigan fan. Yes, I had been watching the annual rivalry game between Michigan and Ohio State every year since I started elementary school. When you grow up in Toledo, Ohio, it is like a religious event akin to Christmas to participate. I followed my family's Michigan roots, plus I preferred wearing their colors over the ugly scarlet and gray. But I really didn't pay too much attention to what was going on.

And then there came that infamous year with Desmond Howard. In that infamous game in 1991, he returned a punt for 93 yards, extending the Wolverines' lead 24-3. I just remember sitting, watching the game, when he caught the ball. He took off running. As he kept moving, I stood up. He kept going and I started yelling. He went all the way, made the infamous Heisman pose, and I started jumping up and down.



My mother came in to find out what the hell was going on. After all, I was screaming and yelling. We lived in an apartment at the end of our store. I think I was disturbing some customers. When I explained to her that history had been made, she was happy, but still told me to hold it down. So, I inwardly yelled.

And thus, a monster was made. Now, I scream and yell and carry on all I want. As long as I am home alone....