We’ve now had a week to think about Michigan football in the spring game, and while we already put forward our offensive prediction, we’re now thinking about the defensive side of the ball.
Though it’s the defense that lost many key components from the 2021 edition of the team, it was that side of the ball that was particularly impressive under first-year Michigan defensive coordinator Jesse Minter in the spring game. There’s a lot of talent, just some of it happens to be unproven.
Not completely the case anymore, now that we’ve seen some of them in action. With that in mind, here’s the WolverinesWire prediction of how the defensive side of the ball will shake out now that spring practices have concluded.
Defensive end 1
Photo: Isaiah Hole
Depth chart
1. Mike Morris
2. Braiden McGregor
3. TJ Guy
Analysis
Morris was named in the same breath as prospective No. 1 overall draft pick Aidan Hutchinson by Jim Harbaugh this spring, which is incredibly high praise. He’s the next man up, and he’ll be the focal point of the exterior pass rush. McGregor is finally fully healthy and has experience, and he reportedly had a great spring. Guy has been coming on and based off his spring game performance, appears to be ready to make a contribution in Year 2.
Defensive tackle 1 (Nose)
Photo: Isaiah Hole
Depth chart
1. Mazi Smith
2. George Rooks (or)
3. Mason Graham
Analysis
No one has gotten more publicity this offseason than Smith, who has reportedly taken a massive step forward after a massive step forward last year. He appears poised to have the type of year in his fourth year as Mo Hurst had in his fifth year. Behind him at nose are numerous options, but Rooks received numerous mentions this spring, and Graham has been impressive, despite being only an early enrollee freshman.
Defensive tackle 2
Photo: Isaiah Hole
Depth chart
1. Kris Jenkins Jr.
2. Julius…
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