The Michigan defense enters this season completely stacked, but there is still room for a new star or two to emerge. Who is your favorite Wolverine defender to have the biggest breakout this season?
While the Michigan Wolverines return essentially just two starters on offense, the defense is filled with returning contributors, even despite a strong draft class that saw players like Mike Sainristil, Kris Jenkins, and Junior Colson make their way to the NFL. As such, the team will be heavily reliant on its defense to lead the way this fall, and there is every reason to think that will be the case.
As strong as the collective unit looks to be, there is definitely an opportunity for some different players to take their first step into the spotlight. This is partially due to the rotation-heavy approach the Wolverines have employed to keep their defenders fresh, but also due to a few nice faces in Ann Arbor who have significant collegiate experience but have yet to break out with the maize and blue. It will be must-see tv when the Michigan defense is on the field this fall.
Who will have the biggest breakout on defense?
All three levels of the defense are going to have some players taking a big step forward in playing time this season. Up front, Rayshaun Benny, TJ Guy, and Enow Etta are all champing at the bit to be the next game wrecker for the Wolverines. Behind them will be Jaishawn Barham, who comes in with a great chance to be an All-Big Ten type player after flashing at Maryland. While he has plenty of solid tape already, he will get to play on a much bigger stage this fall and really elevate his profile.
Where I see someone making the biggest strides, however, is in the secondary. With Sainristil gone and Rod Moore injured, there is a big need for game-changing defensive backs. Maybe it will be Aamir Hall following the Josh Wallace track as CB2. Perhaps Wesley Walker or Jaden Mangham will force their way into the second safety spot. Where I am most focused is at nickel — Ja’Den McBurrows could finally cement himself as a cornerstone, but look out for Zeke Berry, who is my pick for a breakout year.
What do you think? Who is going to become a big part of the defense this fall? Let us know in the comments below!