1968 - 2026
The 7 Mellow Men: Bo’s Historic Gridiron Sons!
A Legacy of Excellence, Brotherhood, and Purpose.
The Greatest Class in Michigan Football History!
The Historic 7 Mellow Men is widely recognized as the greatest class of student-athletes in the 146-year history of the winningest college football program in NCAA history—The University of Michigan. Known for their unmatched contributions both on and off the field, the Mellow Men helped shape the legacy of Michigan Wolverines football under legendary coach Bo Schembechler.
From their undefeated 1971 season to their influential roles as community leaders, NFL players, and scholars, these seven men are more than athletes—they are icons of excellence, unity, and historic impact. Their journey solidified their place in Michigan football history as trailblazers who changed the game.
From their undefeated 1971 season to their influential roles as community leaders, NFL players, and scholars, these seven men are more than athletes—they are icons of excellence, unity, and historic impact. Their journey solidified their place in Michigan football history as trailblazers who changed the game.
Unmatched & Historic! WE MAKE APPEARANCES.
Champions On and Off the Gridiron
The Mellow Men played key roles in two of Michigan’s most celebrated seasons. In 1969 and 1971, they led the Wolverines to two Big Ten Championships, including an undefeated 11-0 season in 1971. Their efforts earned the team two trips to the Rose Bowl in 1970 and 1972, showcasing the strength and unity of this legendary class.
Each of the 7 Mellow Men graduated in 1972—cementing their legacy as champions in both academics and athletics. 5 of the 7 were named ALL-AMERICANS!
Each of the 7 Mellow Men graduated in 1972—cementing their legacy as champions in both academics and athletics. 5 of the 7 were named ALL-AMERICANS!
The 1st Champions Ring in NCAA History!Issued 05/25/25 from Ann Arbor Mayor Christopher TaylorSymbolizing 2 On the Field Championships and over 50 years of Community Activism and Service!
.jpg "Dr. Billy Taylor")
DR. BILLY TAYLOR: His movie is under production.
#42 Dr. Billy Taylor
All-American Running Back, Michigan’s rushing record holder in 1971, team MVP. Drafted by the Atlanta Falcons. Founder of Detroit’s “Get Back Up” facility and author of Get Back Up.
#33 Mike "The Enforcer" Taylor
All-American Middle Linebacker and former 1st round New York Jets player. Later transitioned to a successful career in Detroit’s security industry.
#35 Thom Darden
All-American Defensive Back, All-Pro, and Cleveland Browns Hall of Fame inductee. Became an NFL agent and executive in the communications industry.
Co-Founder of Rapid City Iowa Charter School. Founder NFL Players CTE Recovery House. (Under Development)
#84 Mike Oldham
Wide Receiver and former player for the Washington Redskins (now Commanders). Dedicated his post-football career to community services in Detroit.
#22 Glenn "Shake & Bake" Doughty
All-American Wide Receiver, Baltimore Colts standout in the 1975 turnaround season. Founded the historic Shake & Bake Family Fun Center in Baltimore and after 30 years, retired as CEO of the Award-winning and internationally recognized Career Information & Training Network.
CEO/Executive Producer
7 Historic Mellow Men LLC.
.jpg "Alden \"Butch\" Carpenter")
#94 Alden "Butch" Carpenter
Defensive End and Flint City Hall of Fame member. A lawyer honored through the University of Michigan Law School’s Butch Carpenter Scholarship Fund. Butch passed away on February 2, 1978, leaving a legacy of courage and leadership.
#65 Reggie McKenzie
All-American Offensive Guard, inducted into the NCAA Hall of Fame and a key figure for the Buffalo Bills. Founder of the Reggie McKenzie Foundation and namesake of the Reggie McKenzie Stadium in Highland Park.