As the dust settles on Michigan’s 2026 roster and a new era begins in Ann Arbor, it’s time to turn the page - not just on the Sherrone Moore era, but on what Michigan football can be under Kyle Whittingham.
There’s no sugarcoating it: the last couple of seasons have left Michigan fans hungry for more. Back-to-back years without a College Football Playoff appearance have tested the patience of a fanbase that tasted national relevance not long ago.
But with Whittingham now at the helm - a proven winner known for building physical, disciplined teams - there’s a renewed sense of direction. And while expectations are always sky-high in Ann Arbor, there’s also an understanding that Whittingham inherited a program in flux and had to build a roster on the fly.
Coaching Stability Brings Hope
One of the biggest upgrades this offseason isn’t a player - it’s the coaching staff. Whittingham brings a level of experience and stability that simply wasn’t there during Moore’s two-year run.
On both sides of the ball, Michigan’s staff now boasts a deeper well of knowledge and a clearer identity. That matters, especially when you’re trying to build consistency in a conference that’s only getting tougher.
Offensive Outlook: A New Gear?
Let’s start with the offense, where the pieces are starting to fall into place - especially at quarterback. Sophomore Bryce Underwood is expected to take a big leap forward, and this time, he’ll have the benefit of a dedicated quarterbacks coach. That alone could unlock a new level of play for the Wolverines under center.
The running back room should hold steady, but it’s the wide receiver group that’s drawing the most buzz. Andrew Marsh, Jaime Ffrench, and JJ Buchanan bring a level of talent and explosiveness that simply wasn’t there last year. Compared to the previous trio of Marsh, Semaj Morgan, and Donaven McCulley, this group looks like a serious upgrade - one that could stretch defenses and open up the playbook in ways Michigan fans haven’t seen in a while.
Tight end is a bit of a question mark with Marlin Klein off to the NFL, but the rest of the unit returns intact and should continue to develop. Meanwhile, the offensive line - the engine of any successful Michigan offense - looks like it’s in great shape.
Three starters are back, and the new staff did a stellar job retaining talent in the trenches. That’s a big win, especially with a young quarterback looking to settle in.
Defensive Rebuild in Progress
Defense is where the questions start to pile up. Michigan took some heavy hits along the defensive line, losing key contributors like Derrick Moore, Jaishawn Barham, Rayshaun Benny, Damon Payne Jr., and Tre Williams.
That’s a lot of production and leadership out the door. The hope is that Utah transfer John Henry Daley can return to full health and provide a spark off the edge.
If he’s ready to go, pairing him with players like Nate Marshall, Cameron Brandt, and Trey Pierce could give the Wolverines a solid foundation up front - but it’s still very much a work in progress.
At linebacker, it’s a full reset. Cole Sullivan is off to Oklahoma, and Jimmy Rolder made the jump to the NFL.
That opens the door for some new faces to step in - and there’s talent waiting. Troy Bowles and Nathaniel Owusu-Boateng are highly touted and could be ready for the spotlight, while North Dakota State transfer Nathaniel Staehling adds some experience to the mix.
Still, it’ll be a new-look group, and growing pains are likely.
The secondary might be the most stable unit on defense. Both starting corners - Jyaire Hill and Zeke Berry - return, and Rod Moore is back at safety.
The big question is whether Moore can return to form after his knee injury. Competition will be fierce with transfers Taylor Tatum and Chris Bracy joining returners like Jordan Young and Mason Curtis.
All told, the secondary looks like it’ll hold steady compared to last year - not a dramatic leap forward, but not a step back either.
Special Teams and the X-Factor
Special teams are always tough to project, but there’s reason for optimism with Kerry Coombs taking over. He’s a proven special teams coordinator who brings energy and attention to detail. Losing kicker Dominic Zvada to graduation stings, but if Coombs can get the unit clicking, it could quietly swing a game or two in Michigan’s favor.
So, What’s a Reasonable Expectation for 2026?
This is where things get interesting. On paper, the offense looks improved - potentially significantly so.
The defense? It may take a step back, at least early in the season.
But the biggest difference-maker might be the presence of Whittingham and his staff. Coaching matters, especially in tight games and high-leverage moments, and Michigan now has a sideline that knows how to win.
The schedule isn’t doing the Wolverines any favors. Oklahoma comes to town in Week 2 - a true litmus test against a playoff-caliber opponent.
And the conference slate is tougher than last year. That means Michigan could be a better team in 2026 but still end up with a similar record if the ball doesn’t bounce their way.
Still, the goal has to be the College Football Playoff. That’s the standard in Ann Arbor, and with the expanded playoff format, it’s a more attainable one - even with a couple of bumps along the way. If Michigan can get there, anything beyond that is gravy.
So what should fans expect? A playoff berth feels like a fair bar to set.
Anything less, and the questions will start. But if this offense clicks and the defense finds its footing by midseason, don’t be surprised if Whittingham’s debut campaign ends with Michigan right back in the national conversation.