Michigan Football is entering its second season under head coach Jim Harbaugh with high expectations from college football analysts and Michigan fans. Harbaugh is no stranger to these high pressure situations – he is most well-known for his enthusiasm and unpredictability. Michigan released multiple hype videos this preseason including a music video, starring Harbaugh himself, which have built up the 2016 season to be a great one.
The biggest question entering the season was who would be the starting quarterback. Last year’s starter, Jake Rudock, graduated and was drafted by the Detroit Lions in the sixth round. Harbaugh kept the media in the dark and did not reveal that the starting QB would be sophomore Wilton Speight until just before Michigan thrashed Hawaii 63-3 at home during the season opener. Speight beat out juniors John O’Korn and Shane Morris for the position. Though he showed a promising start, Speight will need to continue developing his skillset if Michigan wants to earn one of the four spots in College Football Playoffs.
Michigan is looking forward to another stellar season from its defense. Returning starters Jabrill Peppers and Jourdan Lewis are expected to lead the defense and match Harbaugh’s energy. For the Wolverines to have success this season, they will rely heavily on their defense to bail out the offense when it struggles.
When we look back on the season (hopefully after Michigan hoists the championship trophy), I believe the key to Michigan’s success will be Jabrill Peppers. He is an outstanding athlete with the skills and knowledge of the game to provide Michigan with plenty of opportunities to win. Peppers may be a defensive specialist, but Harbaugh is expected to use him on offense and special teams as well.
The Big 10 Conference will pose a serious threat to Michigan this year. Ohio State is the frontrunner to win the conference again, and Michigan State and Iowa will be tough challenges for the Wolverines as well. Regardless of the challenges that we may face this season, there are no doubts in my mind that Michigan has genuine potential to make a run for the title.
Contributed by: Jake Silver