Spring ball is in the books for Michigan after a 7-6 Maize team win over the Blue team on Saturday. While the glorified scrimmage doesn’t tell the entire story, that doesn’t stop us from overanalyzing every bit of the game as we eagerly await the start of the season.
Ahead of the 2026 season, linebacker is widely viewed as the biggest area of concern on the defense. The Wolverines lost two crucial pieces in Cole Sullivan (portal) ane Jimmy Rolder (NFL Draft). Now, they will rely on guys like Troy
Bowles, Chase Taylor, Nathaniel Owusu-Boateng and a few transfers this fall.
Here are a few things we learned about the linebackers following the spring game.
DC Jay Hill might be able to scheme his way around things
It’s no secret that new defensive coordinator Jay Hill has relied on a strong secondary to shift momentum in games and slow down opposing offenses. Looking at the defense on Saturday, Hill could use Michigan’s depth in the secondary to make up for the lack of depth and experience at linebacker.
Michigan’s linebackers were a crucial piece to the defense last year, but in 2026, Hill could rely upon a solid defensive line and deep secondary instead. Michigan’s defensive front looks like it might actually win a few more battles at the line of scrimmage than we might have thought prior to the spring game, which would take some pressure off the linebackers. While the position still has a lot of questions, Hill might be able to scheme his way around some of those potential problems.
Don’t be surprised if miscues lead to longer drives this fall
While Hill might be able to limit some of the issues at linebacker, this group still could have a few breakdowns that lead to longer sustained drives for opponents. While Bowles and Taylor have flashed at times, they’re still learning the new system. Hill’s secondary starts off the line of scrimmage, and if running backs or quarterbacks can get to the next level, it’s likely Michigan gives up some chunk plays, thus sustaining drives. Michigan’s got a tough schedule and will face some of the best offenses in the country, so if the linebackers don’t pick up the right assignment, the defense could have a hard time getting off the field.
Their youth might actually be a good thing
Over the past few seasons, it has seemed like Michigan’s defensive system may have been too complex for some of the players. Wonky formations and expecting too much from young guys prevented the defense from executing in some of its biggest games. This season, given Michigan’s youth at the position, the coaches could simplify some things for the linebackers. Michigan has talent at the position, and helping them slow down the game by giving them fewer things to focus on might actually allow the group to play to their strengths.
Look, I get it’s only the spring game, but this is what we’ve got to go off for now. What players stood out to you? Any young faces you’re ready to see on the field this fall? Let us know in the comments below!
