3 reasons for optimism for Michigan Football following spring ball

Michigan’s defensive line looked strong, even without top talent

The defensive front looked good, even with All-American edge rusher John Henry Daley out. We’ve been hearing he’s ahead of schedule after missing out on playing time because of an Achilles injury at the end of last season. He has the potential to be one of the best players on the defense as long as his injury doesn’t hold him back. Along with that, incoming freshman Carter Meadows will arrive this summer, and there’s a lot of hope for him as well. The five-star recruit has the potential to make an instant impact, and while he might need to add some weight, he’s got all the talent in the world. He’ll be a player that can add some critical depth to the defensive end position and help Michigan’s defense get opposing offenses off the field.

Michigan’s run game can carry the offense

Running backs Jordan Marshall and Savion Hiter will be tough for any opposing defense to handle. Hiter had 10 carries for 44 yards, while Marshall had five carries for 21 yards. While Hiter will be an immediate impact player as a freshman, Marshall looks like he’s picking up where he left off in 2025. He’s carried this team on his back before, and he seems capable of doing that again if need be. Having a strong run game will hopefully take some pressure off Underwood and allow him to make some big passing plays without having to throw into tight coverage. As long as Michigan can get enough offense going on the ground, Underwood should be able to help balance out the team’s ability to move the ball. While he didn’t necessarily shine in the spring game, it’s tough to judge someone on a game that just doesn’t simulate reality all that much.