The Wolverine: Covering University of Michigan Football and Sports
Issue link: https://comanpub.uberflip.com/i/1482097
NOVEMBER 2022 THE WOLVERINE 21 "I always feel I need to get better, be- cause honestly, there's someone out there getting better. That might be from Kobe Bryant or whomever, but I believe the same thing they believe. When I'm not working, someone else is. "Even though they don't want me in here in the weight room all day, I find other ways to be better. Whether it be watching film or just becoming a smarter football player." CELEBRITY STATUS, BUT UNCHANGED GOALS Corum can't go anywhere on campus, or outlying areas, without getting recog- nized. He'd rather leave the attention for his family to embrace. "I let them enjoy it," Corum said. "It's time for me to work. As far as the Heis- man, there's only one winner, and it's at the end of the year. I'm guaranteed a few more games. So, what can I do in those? "That's the way I look at it. I've got to work, man. I've just got to keep going." For someone determined to keep going, he keeps stopping — for those who want a moment, a photo, or a brief hello with one of the most recognizable Wolverines. "It's hard," he said. "Every time you step out, even if you have your hoodie on, people notice you. But I'm a people per- son, especially with kids. I love kids, and I'm always trying to help people. "If someone wants a picture, come on, let's get a picture. It can make their day. It doesn't hurt. It takes a second. "But yes, going to school, going gro- cery shopping, hoodie on, I always get noticed. But I love the people around here. I'm part of the community now. I enjoy it." The community should enjoy him, while it can. Corum loves Michigan, rel- ished last year's breakout season, and wants even more in the final weeks of this one. But his football days aren't likely to end at Michigan, whether this year or next. He still has classmates who recall his early vow, and they might get to see it certified. His sights remain set as high as they can go. "I will not stop until I reach my goals," he assured. "The only thing that's going to be able to stop me is a career-ending injury. I've come this far. Nothing will stop me. "That is the end goal. I have plenty of goals, plenty of things I want to do in life outside of football. But the league is the next goal for me. Before I get there, I need to finish this first. I want that national championship. I want to beat Ohio State again. "I've never beaten Michigan State. I'm going to beat them this year. Big Ten cham- pionship — then we've got to go finish it. "Obviously, the end goal is the NFL. Nothing is going to stop me from going there." For those inclined to argue, Corum's childhood buddies advise against it. ❏ Corum learned his work ethic from his par- ents, and he brings that tireless approach to the practice field, the weight room and film study. PHOTO BY PER KJELDSEN