Michigan coach Mike Hart gives update after sidelines scare

Ann Arbor - Michigan running backs coach Mike Hart spoke out for the first time on Monday after reportedly suffering a seizure on the field during Saturday's Week 6 college football conference game against Indiana.

Michigan Wolverines running back coach Mike Hart was carted off of the field during the first half of Saturday's game against the Indiana Hoosiers at Memorial Stadium.
Michigan Wolverines running back coach Mike Hart was carted off of the field during the first half of Saturday's game against the Indiana Hoosiers at Memorial Stadium.  © MICHAEL HICKEY / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / GETTY IMAGES VIA AFP

The frightening incident occurred on the sidelines in the first quarter of Michigan's 31–10 road win against the Hoosiers.

Following a touchdown by Indiana, the 36-year-old second-year run game coordinator and running backs coach suddenly fell to the ground and was carted off the field on a stretcher. Hart was alert and responsive as he was escorted out the stadium, and even gave the crowd a thumbs up before transported out.

He was then hospitalized overnight for evaluation.

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While Hart's return to coaching at full capacity and his official diagnosis still remains undisclosed, he remains hopeful and excited to rejoin his Wolverine squad.

"Health-wise, I am back in Ann Arbor and things are trending in a positive direction," Hart's statement read on Monday. "I look forward to rejoining our team soon."

"I would like to thank everyone for their support, messages, and prayers. I am truly grateful for the trainers and paramedics, the doctors and nurses at IU Hospital, Michigan’s team doctors, coaching staff, players and Coach Harbaugh. I would also like to thank IU’s football staff and team doctors," he added.

"I will never forget everyone's kindness and generosity."

Mike Hart says he is looking forward to reuniting back with Wolverines football

Blake Corum of the Michigan Wolverines runs the ball as Bryant Fitzgerald of the Indiana Hoosiers makes the tackle during the second half of Saturday's game at Memorial Stadium.
Blake Corum of the Michigan Wolverines runs the ball as Bryant Fitzgerald of the Indiana Hoosiers makes the tackle during the second half of Saturday's game at Memorial Stadium.  © MICHAEL HICKEY / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / GETTY IMAGES VIA AFP

After Hart's health scare during Saturday's game, Michigan running backs Blake Corum and Donovan Edwards were seen visibly emotional during the broadcast, and were comforted by fellow teammates and coaches.

Indiana coaches also came out onto the field to check on Hart, who coached for the Hoosiers from 2017 to 2020 before joining Michigan - his alma mater.

"He prepared us really well throughout the week," Corum said about playing after Hart collapsed. "I think we did a great job and did what we had to do. It was a little difficult at first, for sure. But we stuck together, and we knew what he would want us to do."

Michigan's next big test will come on Saturday against fellow Big Ten opponent Penn State.

The Nittany Lions are currently ranked in the top 10 and their matchup with the Wolverines will be the first time since 1997 both teams have met while undefeated.

The noon EST showdown will also serve as the first to determine the East Division champions. The second will be Ohio State vs Penn State on October 29.

Cover photo: MICHAEL HICKEY / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / GETTY IMAGES VIA AFP

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