No one can argue that the 2024 Michigan Wolverines football season has been a letdown. Both on and off the field, the program has faced significant challenges that have led to widespread dissatisfaction among fans and stakeholders.
Head coach Sherrone Moore is now tasked with navigating these turbulent waters and making the necessary changes to turn the program around.
Fortunately, the modern era of college football, with its dynamic transfer portal, offers a glimmer of hope for rapid improvement.
Many fans have been vocal about the need for changes at the coordinator positions, but the one change that seems inevitable is the addition and subtraction of players via the transfer portal.
With the portal set to open in December, Michigan must be proactive in addressing its most pressing needs.
While the commitment of five-star quarterback Bryce Underwood is a positive development, the Wolverines still need to bolster their roster if they hope to be competitive in the Big Ten and on the national stage.
Offensive Needs: Quarterback and Wide Receiver
The quarterback position is an obvious area of need for Michigan. Despite the recent commitment from Bryce Underwood, the Wolverines must explore the transfer portal to find a seasoned quarterback who can provide immediate impact.
The current quarterback situation has been less than stellar, and finding a reliable signal-caller is crucial for the team’s success.
Another critical area on offense is the wide receiver position. The current crop of receivers has struggled to support the quarterbacks, leading to a subpar passing game.
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Michigan needs to target tall, rangy outside receivers who can make plays and stretch the field. This addition would not only improve the passing game but also take some pressure off the quarterbacks.
Offensive Line: A Tough Nut to Crack
While the offensive line is another area that could use reinforcement, finding quality linemen in the transfer portal is notoriously difficult.
Michigan has had some success in the past with players like Olu Oluwatimi and Drake Nugent, but these cases are exceptions rather than the rule.
Nonetheless, the Wolverines should still seek to add talent across all offensive line positions to ensure depth and competition.
Defensive Needs: Defensive Line and Secondary
On the defensive side of the ball, the line is an area where Michigan can never have too much talent.
With the potential loss of key players like Mason Graham, Kenneth Grant, and Josaiah Stewart to the NFL Draft, the Wolverines will need to find capable replacements.
T.J. Guy and Rayshaun Benny have shown promise as role players, but additional help is necessary to maintain a strong defensive front.
The secondary is another area of concern, especially with the expected departures of Will Johnson, Makari Paige, and Aamir Hall.
While there is some returning talent, such as Zeke Berry and Jyaire Hill, the Wolverines would benefit from adding a lockdown corner to pair with Hill.
This would solidify the secondary and provide the defense with more stability.
Linebacker: A Key Decision Looms
The linebacker position’s future largely hinges on Jaishawn Barham’s decision to return to Ann Arbor. If Barham decides to stay, it would be a significant boost for the Wolverines.
However, if he opts to leave, Michigan will need to find a capable replacement through the transfer portal to ensure the linebacking corps remains strong.
Prioritizing Transfer Portal Needs
Given the various needs across the roster, it’s essential to prioritize which positions to target in the transfer portal. Based on the current state of the team, the order of priorities should be as follows:
- Quarterback
- Offensive Line
- Defensive Line
- Secondary
Realistic Expectations
While the transfer portal offers an opportunity to bring in talented players, it’s essential to manage expectations.
Finding a high-quality starting quarterback via the portal is challenging, and the same goes for other key positions.
However, with a proactive approach and strategic targeting, Michigan can improve its roster and set the stage for a brighter future.
Conclusion
The 2024 season may not have gone as planned for the Michigan Wolverines, but the future holds promise if the right moves are made in the transfer portal.
By addressing the most critical needs—quarterback, offensive line, defensive line, and secondary—head coach Sherrone Moore can guide the team back to competitiveness.
The transfer portal is a powerful tool. With careful planning and execution, Michigan can turn its fortunes around and aim for success in the coming seasons.
For more insights and updates on Michigan Wolverines football, visit Maize n Brew.
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