With spring practice just around the corner, Michigan football fans have plenty to circle on the calendar. The Wolverines are set to kick off spring ball on March 17, with their annual spring game scheduled for April 18. And this year, it’s shaping up to be far more compelling than in seasons past.
For starters, Michigan is stepping away from the more cautious approach we’ve seen recently across college football. In previous years, some programs-including Michigan-opted to tape-delay their spring games or even turn them into glorified walkthroughs, all in an effort to keep potential transfer targets under wraps.
But with the spring transfer portal window now eliminated, that paranoia is fading. Coaches no longer have to worry quite as much about other teams scouting their rosters during spring exhibitions.
That means fans should be treated to a real football game this time around-physical, competitive, and revealing.
And make no mistake, there’s a lot to reveal about this Michigan squad.
This spring marks the beginning of a new era in Ann Arbor. With a new head coach at the helm, all eyes will be on how the Wolverines transition and take shape under fresh leadership.
Kyle Whittingham, known for his no-frills, businesslike approach, isn’t expected to open the doors wide to the media or public during spring practices. But what we will see on April 18 should offer a strong glimpse into what this team is building.
One of the biggest storylines? Bryce Underwood.
The highly touted quarterback prospect is entering what could be a defining spring. His development isn’t just something to monitor-it’s central to Michigan’s hopes of remaining in the College Football Playoff conversation.
Underwood will have more support this year, both on the field and in the film room. For the first time, he’ll be working with a dedicated quarterbacks coach, a key resource he didn’t have last season.
And the talent around him? It’s there.
Wide receiver Andrew Marsh officially announced his return this week-a move that was expected, but still significant. Marsh, along with fellow playmaker JJ Buchanan, gives Underwood some serious firepower on the outside.
With a full offseason to build chemistry and a coaching staff that’s now better equipped to develop him, this could be a breakout spring for the young quarterback.
Of course, it’s not just about the offense. Michigan’s defense will also be under the microscope, especially as the new staff begins to install its schemes and evaluate personnel. There’s a lot to figure out on both sides of the ball, and spring is when the foundation gets laid.
The countdown is on. With a new coach, a potential star under center, and a fan base hungry to see what’s next, Michigan’s 2026 spring camp isn’t just another set of practices-it’s the first chapter of a new era in Ann Arbor. And if the buzz is any indication, it can’t get here fast enough.