Wink Martindale Talks Michigan Defense, Texas Challenge, and the Future of College Football Ahead of Citrus Bowl
ORLANDO, Fla. - With Michigan just days away from a Citrus Bowl clash against Texas, defensive coordinator Wink Martindale stepped up to the podium in Orlando and gave a candid, wide-ranging look at where this Wolverines team stands - and where college football might be headed. From player leadership and NFL opt-outs to the explosive Longhorns offense and the changing landscape of the sport, Martindale didn’t hold back.
Let’s break down the key takeaways from his media session, as Michigan prepares for a high-stakes matchup with plenty of intrigue on and off the field.
Michigan’s Defensive Identity: All Gas, No Brakes
Asked what fans should know about this Michigan squad, Martindale didn’t hesitate: it’s about effort and energy.
“We take great pride in how hard we play,” he said. “And showing the joy of the game.”
That’s been the hallmark of this defense all year. It’s not just about schemes or stats - it’s about a group of guys who love to compete.
According to Martindale, that intensity hasn’t wavered during bowl prep. This team doesn’t need extra motivation just because it’s a bowl game.
That motor’s always running.
Next Man Up: New Leaders Emerge
With several of Michigan’s defensive captains from earlier in the season not suiting up for the bowl, the spotlight has shifted to a new wave of leadership. And Martindale likes what he sees.
“Ray, Benny, Jimmy - I knew that about Jimmy two years ago,” he said, referring to linebacker Jimmy Rolder. “Each position group has somebody stepping up.”
He also singled out young players like Dom Nichols, who’s made noticeable strides in recent weeks and is expected to see meaningful snaps. In the secondary, names like Shug, Jyaire Hill, and TJ Metcalf have taken on more responsibility - not just in terms of performance, but in setting the tone.
Texas Offense: A Box of Surprises
When it comes to scouting the Longhorns, Martindale didn’t sugarcoat the challenge.
“Obviously, you look at the quarterback - he’s a very talented young man,” he said. “Their offense is explosive.”
And it’s not just about one guy. Martindale compared facing Texas to opening a box of cereal and not knowing what surprise you’re going to get.
That speaks to the depth and unpredictability of the Longhorns’ attack. Every position group has playmakers, and Michigan’s defense will need to be sharp across the board.
Jimmy Rolder: NFL-Bound
Martindale didn’t mince words when asked how Jimmy Rolder stacks up in terms of NFL potential.
“He’s going to be a draft choice - a high draft choice,” he said. “He’s an excellent football player.”
That’s high praise from a coach who’s spent years evaluating pro-level talent. Rolder’s instincts, physicality, and leadership have made him a cornerstone of this defense, and he’ll be a player to watch not just in the Citrus Bowl, but in April.
Missing Pieces, Same Mentality
Michigan will be without three defensive starters due to NFL opt-outs, but Martindale emphasized that this team has been rotating players all year. The depth is there, and the mindset hasn’t changed.
“We’ve played a lot of different individuals,” he said. “It’s going to be fun to watch.”
That next-man-up mentality has been a core part of Michigan’s identity this season. Whether it’s edge rushers like TJ Guy and Lu Edokpayi stepping in, or younger players getting their shot, the Wolverines are confident in their ability to plug and play.
Coaching Through Chaos
The last few weeks have been a whirlwind for the Michigan staff, with head coaching changes and uncertainty swirling around the program. Martindale acknowledged the emotional toll - not just on the coaches, but on their families.
“It’s a tough situation,” he said. “We’ve become family. We spend more time together than with our own families.”
He got emotional when talking about the real-life impact of coaching transitions - kids being uprooted from schools, families moving across the country. But through it all, Martindale said the staff has remained locked in.
“They prepared the same way for this game as they have every other game,” he said.
The Future of College Football: Transactional and Uncharted
When asked about the state of college football, Martindale didn’t shy away from the hard truths. NIL, the transfer portal, and the overall business of the sport have changed everything.
“It’s become so transactional now,” he said. “The kids and parents understand it.”
He pointed out that even high school players are signing NIL deals now, and that the sport is inching closer to a professional model - complete with public contract details and, potentially, salary caps.
“I think they have to have a salary cap at some point,” he said. “We’ll have to see.”
Despite the challenges, Martindale still believes in the game. He spoke with reverence about football’s impact and expressed hope that the sport continues to grow in the right direction - even if the money side of it raises tough questions.
Edge Depth: Time for New Faces to Shine
With a couple of starters out on the edge, Michigan will rely on a group that’s shown promise throughout the year. Martindale highlighted TJ Guy and Lu Edokpayi as players who’ve stepped up, and he’s eager to see what they can do with expanded roles.
“There are other young guys we’re going to get to see live in action,” he said. “It’s a fun group to watch.”
Final Thoughts: Locked In for the Citrus Bowl
Martindale’s message was clear: this team is ready. Despite the coaching turnover, the NFL departures, and the whirlwind of modern college football, the Wolverines are focused on the task at hand - beating a talented Texas team on New Year’s Day.
And if Martindale’s tone is any indication, Michigan’s defense isn’t just showing up - they’re coming in with something to prove.