Expectations For Team #144 and Jim Harbaugh Continue To Rise Following Michigan Spring Game

Many notable players did not play in the game including RBs Blake Corum and Donovan Edwards, both nursing injuries from last season. Also star DB Will Johnson sat out the game. Spring games are used to showcase the new arrivals and to see a preview of what’s to come for the upcoming season.

Who Stood Out

While the score didn’t imply that either side stood out against one another, it was the Michigan defense that controlled the game. The defense created 4 turnovers and didn’t allow the offense to really get drives going until the end of the game. We did see returning starter QB JJ McCarthy get some reps, but it was some unheard-of names and position battles that stood out during the game.

              –Backup QB: This position has become more important in any teams depth chart in the modern "win now" culture. Indiana grad transfer Jack Tuttle seems to have a grip on the backup spot. As he took most of the reps with the second team. Keep an eye on 3^rd string QB Alex Orji for designed runs and wildcat formations. He proved (again) that he is a very capable runner and great at extending plays.

              –Payton O’ Leary: If there is one name to remember coming out of this year’s Spring Game, its junior WR Payton O’ Leary. The former walk-on turned scholarship player opened eyes this spring. The former UMASS Amhurst commit led the way for the Wolverines on offense with 6 catches for 126 yards and caught the game winning 2 pt conversion. While stuck in a deep and talented WR room this season, don’t be surprised if O’ Leary sees an increase in playing time after his string performance.

              –Benjamin Hall: With the top 3 RBs (Corum, Edwards, Stokes) all on the sidelines we got to see a glimpse into the future of the RB room. With incoming freshman Cole Cabana also out with an injury, early enrolled freshman Benjamin Hall took control of the ground game. He racked up 96 yards and 1 TD. Michigan RB coach Mike Hart will have no shortness of talent this coming season.

              –Michigan Defense: The defense continues to shine under DC Jesse Minter, who got an NFL interview this offseason with the Philadelphia Eagles. EDGE Rusher looks to be a fluid situation now as they try to replace Mazi Smith and Mike Morris on the line. The rotation at the moment looks to be between Braiden McGregor, Jaylen Harrel and Josiah Stewart. We also got to see converted WR Amarion Walker in his first defensive snaps and he looks like he still has much to learn but looks more than capable of being ready by the time the season rolls around.

Expectations For Team #144

While it’s only April and there is plenty of time to make predictions, could this be the year that Michigan finally wins their first National Championship since 1997? The simple answer is Yes. This is by far the most talented team that Jim Harbaugh has assembled at Michigan. One very important factor to consider is Alabama, Ohio State, and Georgia will be integrating a new QB this coming season. This is a unique opportunity for Michigan to build on the success of what Harbaugh and his staff have already created.

Even with Harbaugh flirting with the NFL on a yearly basis, his players have worked hard and stayed loyal to him. They have delivered with back-to-back Big Ten titles and CFB Playoff appearances. It all starts with winning the Big Ten (again) obviously but there is no doubt that Michigan will be among the favorites to win their first National Championship in nearly 30 years.

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