Putting the right pieces in place at these three position groups will largely impact the team’s hopes for continued success in 2024.
As the Michigan Wolverines gear up for the 2024 season, several key position battles are capturing the attention of fans and coaches alike. These competitions not only highlight the depth and talent on the roster but also promise to shape the team’s identity as it pursues Big Ten and national titles.
For Part 1 of a two-part series, let’s take a closer look and make a prediction for some of the ongoing position battles.
Nickel: Ja’Den McBurrows vs Zeke Berry
The nickel spot is crucial in modern college football, requiring a player who can cover slot receivers, support the run defense, and blitz effectively. For Michigan, the competition between Ja’Den McBurrows and Zeke Berry is intriguing.
McBurrows has a reputation for his physicality and football IQ. The Florida native showed flashes of brilliance in relief of Mike Sainristil last season, displaying excellent tackling and a knack for being around the ball. His aggressive play style and solid fundamentals make him a strong candidate.
Zeke Berry, on the other hand, brings a blend of athleticism and versatility that is hard to overlook. Berry’s speed and agility allow him to cover a wide range of receivers effectively. Additionally, his ability to play multiple positions in the secondary adds a strategic advantage for the defense.
Prediction: This competition could go down to the wire, but McBurrows’ experience and physicality might give him a slight edge. However, Berry’s dynamic skillset ensures he will see significant playing time regardless of the outcome. It might make the most sense to let Berry rotate between nickel and safety, in a role similar to Keon Sabb’s in 2023.
Right Tackle: Andrew Gentry vs Jeffrey Persi
The offensive line is the backbone of Michigan’s offense, and the battle for the starting right tackle spot between Andrew Gentry and Jeffrey Persi is heating up.
Gentry, a once highly touted recruit, brings impressive size (6-foot-7) and strength (327 pounds) to the table. His technique and abilities to handle the pass rush are notable, while his physical attributes make him a formidable presence.
Persi is no slouch either. He has been in the program longer and has developed a keen understanding of the Wolverines’ offensive schemes. His footwork and consistency have also been praised by the coaching staff. Persi’s familiarity with the system and steady improvement make him a legitimate contender.
Prediction: This battle is likely to be one of the toughest decisions for the coaching staff. While Persi’s experience within the system is undeniable, Gentry’s potential and talent might earn him the nod early in the season. Expect both players to rotate frequently until one clearly outperforms the other during in-game situations.
Wide Receiver: Fred Moore vs C.J. Charleston
The departure of Roman Wilson and Cornelius Johnson opened up competition at the wide receiver position, with Fred Moore and C.J. Charleston vying for a prominent role. Both Tyler Morris and Semaj Morgan are evident starters given their usage last year, but who will cement a spot alongside the two of them?
Moore has been turning heads with his precise route-running and reliable hands. His ability to find soft spots in the defense and make tough catches in traffic make him a valuable target. His electric performances during previous spring games have not gone unnoticed by the coaching staff as well.
Charleston offers a different dimension with his speed and athleticism. Not to say Moore doesn’t have either of those things, but Charleston’s big-play potential is evident. His ability to stretch defenses vertically and make explosive plays after the catch adds a dynamic element to Michigan’s offense. The Youngstown State transfer’s versatility also allows him to contribute on special teams, enhancing his value to the team.
Prediction: Both receivers bring unique strengths, but Moore’s reliability and route-running precision may give him an edge as the season begins. Charleston’s explosiveness, however, ensures he will be an essential part of the rotation.
Stay tuned for Part 2, releasing later this week.