Michigan football had to know there would be jokes and criticism.
The Wolverines had to know announcing an extension Friday for head coach Jim Harbaugh following a 2-4 season, one of the least competitive in program history, would invite skepticism from supporters and faux celebration from rival fans.
But before Spartans or Buckeyes fans do a victory dance, they should remember why Michigan wanted to keep Harbaugh. His struggles in big games are well documented, but he consistently brings in touted recruiting classes, moves athletes to the NFL and wins games against teams not named Ohio State.