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Michigan football has a very good problem on its hands

In 2023, Michigan football will have a very good problem on its hands: figuring out how to use all of its dangerous offensive weapons.

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© Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK

Heading into 2023, Michigan football has an excellent problem on its hands: the Wolverines boast three dangerous weapons out of the backfield and a scary good offensive line to match.

How is this an issue, you ask? Michigan must now decide how to run its offense best, whether through the air or on the ground. Under center will be rising junior JJ McCarthy — a proven threat as a passer and runner.

Behind McCarthy will be the best running back duo in college football: rising junior Donovan Edwards and rising senior Blake Corum — a terrifying sight for Big Ten defenses.

Why not just run the offense the same as 2022?

Last season, we saw a similar offensive set as in 2021: pass when you need to and run the ball until your opposition breaks. In fairness to Michigan’s play callers, this offensive scheme has worked for the better part of Harbaugh’s tenure in Ann Arbor — especially over the past two seasons.

The issue now is that Michigan’s run-first system was built for a game-managing quarterback like Cade McNamara; in fact, the Wolverines largely implemented this set between 2020 and 2021 when there was a noticeable question mark at the quarterback position.

This system was at its best over the past two years because it was built for a slow quarterback that could not take over a game. Last season, we saw McCarthy occasionally stumble and fail to find rhythm in this scheme despite the offense still seeing great success.

Michigan’s offensive gameplan from the past two seasons worked great for the Wolverines in Big Ten play — Michigan is 19-1 in conference play since 2021 — yet in nonconference games (College Football Playoff and bowl games), the offense could not find a rhythm.

The only time we saw the Wolverines’ offense look good against a Playoff opponent was when Michigan football allowed JJ McCarthy to open up the playbook and use his athletic abilities, whether in the air or on the ground.

Michigan football must find balance

Before anyone gets upset, I know that Michigan’s run-first strategy brought two Big Ten Championships to Ann Arbor. I am not saying that the Wolverines need to abandon the run game; I am saying the opposite.

Michigan’s ground game will improve as its passing game improves. Why? Because the opposing defenses won’t be allowed to stack the box. Throughout the past two years, we have seen the opposite — Michigan’s passing game (especially off of play-action) has thrived due to its opposition selling out to stop the run.

Any play caller worth Michigan’s time could utilize this to their advantage. If the Wolverines can establish an actual passing attack, opposing teams would not know what to do to stop Michigan. Right when you think Michigan will connect on another deep ball, running back Blake Corum breaks off a huge, game-changing run as the Wolverines’ offensive line terrorizes the defense’s “dime” defense.

Edwards, McCarthy, Corum: a deadly trio

To me, the scariest part about Michigan’s offense in 2023 is the trio of Donovan Edwards, JJ McCarthy, and Blake Corum behind Michigan’s stingy offensive line. This trio will be the foundation of what could end up being a National Championship berth this fall.

Figuring out how to use them equally will be Michigan’s most significant issue; here is what each of them bring to the table.

Donovan Edwards


Throughout history, we have seen some great running backs in the Maize and Blue, though I believe Donovan Edwards has the potential to be one of the best. Edwards’ massive frame is a scary sight in itself, and he combines more speed than Blake Corum and the shiftiness to match.

When Corum went out due to injury for the Ohio State and Purdue games, Donovan Edwards showed Wolverine fans what he could do. Against the Buckeyes, Edwards ran for over 220 yards in his first official start; the weekend after, Edwards went for 185 yards and won player of the game in Michigan’s Big Ten Championship win.

If that was not enough, Edwards frequently lined up as a receiver and is possibly a top-3 pass-catcher on the Wolverines’ roster. Edwards uses his massive frame as an impactful blocker and even threw a 75-yard touchdown pass in the 2021 Big Ten Championship game. When you hear the phrase “do-it-all player,” think of Michigan’s Donovan Edwards.

Blake Corum

Blake Corum — Michigan’s 2022 Heisman Trophey-contending running back — recently announced that he will be returning for one more season in the Maize and Blue. This is excellent news for Michigan football; Corum’s presence on and off the football field is essential to Michigan’s success.

Blake Corum is likely the best college running back in the country now — his shiftiness and tough running are going to be an asset for the Wolverines as they pursue another Big Ten title this year.

Corum was snubbed for the Heisman last year — a year in which he averaged nearly 6.0 yards per carry, racked up over 1,500 total yards, and almost 20 touchdowns, all said and done through 10.5 games. Now, Corum will look for some revenge as he wraps up his college career.

JJ McCarthy

Michigan’s rising junior quarterback, JJ McCarthy, could be one of the best quarterbacks in the nation. With a suitable offensive scheme, he could break the Wolverines’ single-season passing yards and passing touchdowns records (3,331/25).

Last November, McCarthy took over Michigan’s offense and modernized it after Blake Corum’s injury hindered the running game. In 2023, the Wolverines should gameplan around McCarthy’s arm and the receiving abilities of its dynamic running back duo.

I am not sure that JJ will be a Heisman contender at Michigan — primarily because Michigan will always love to run the ball more than anything — but in 2023, I have high expectations. The talent and experience are there; it’s time to show it on the field and lead Michigan football back to the promised land.

Thank you for reading Blue by Ninety. For more Michigan Athletics content from Blue by Ninety, follow us on TwitterFacebookand Instagram. You can also subscribe to our YouTube Channel. For feedback, questions, concerns, or to apply for a writing position, please email our Managing Editor at Cj@BluebyNinety.com or DM him on Twitter, @CJsWrld_.

FB RECRUITING

Four-star Michigan football target expected to commit soon

This four-star Michigan football target is about to announce his commitment.

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Michigan football, recruiting, 2024 recruiting class, Brian Robinson
Dec 4, 2021; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Michigan Wolverines head coach Jim Harbaugh against the Iowa Hawkeyes in the Big Ten Conference championship game at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

The Wolverines are one of the five remaining teams for Brian Robinson, a blue-chip edge rusher from Ohio, who is reportedly close to making a college decision. Robinson, who was once a prominent four-star Michigan football target in the 2024 recruiting class, was initially strongly leaning towards Michigan, but now it appears to be more uncertain. His commitment would be a significant and unexpected acquisition for Jim Harbaugh and the Wolverines.

Four-star Michigan football target Brian Robinson close to a final call

According to recent reports, Brian Robinson is nearing a decision and aims to conclude his recruitment within the next week or so. Robinson is currently ranked as the No. 131 recruit in the 2024 recruiting class. Given that the Wolverines have recently lost a substantial amount of talent on the defensive side of the football, especially at edge rusher, Robinson could be a major addition for Jim Harbaugh.

It doesn’t appear that Robinson is favoring the Wolverines right now, although Michigan football recruiting has seen significant changes recently, so anything is possible. At one point this year, it seemed highly likely that Ann Arbor would be Robinson’s eventual destination; however, his recruitment has become much more complicated in recent months.

If Jim Harbaugh can land Robinson, it would be huge for the 2024 recruiting class

The remaining schools in contention, aside from Michigan football, are Maryland, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Penn State. According to the RPM, Robinson’s preferred landing spot right now is the Kentucky Wildcats, with the Maize and Blue firmly in contention at the No. 2 spot.

As per the On3 industry rankings, Robinson is a highly sought-after four-star Michigan football target, ranking as the No. 131 player nationally, the No. 9 edge rusher in the 2024 recruiting class, and the No. 5 player in the state of Ohio.



Thank you for reading Blue by Ninety. For more Michigan Athletics and Big Ten content from Blue by Ninety, follow us on TwitterFacebook, and Instagram. You can also subscribe to our YouTube Channel. For feedback, questions, concerns, or to apply for a writing position, please email our Publisher at Cj@BluebyNinety.com. Also, be sure to check out our shop and our podcast, which is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all other streaming platforms. It is because of your support that we have become one of the fastest-growing and most influential Michigan media outlets there is!

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FOOTBALL

Latest buzz on impressive Michigan football freshman wide receivers

Here is the latest buzz from Schembechler Hall regarding a few rising stars — these Michigan football freshman wideouts are impressive!

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Michigan football, wide receivers, Ron Bellamy, Big Ten
© Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK

The Wolverines’ wide receiver corps is led by Roman Wilson — the NCAA’s leader in touchdown catches (6) — and Cornelius Johnson. That said, below these two talented veterans are a number of impressive Michigan football freshman wideouts, who recently earned some high praise from wide receivers coach Ron Bellamy ahead of this weekend’s Big Ten conference opener against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights (3-0).

Michigan football freshman wide receivers continue to impress

Unlike the previous two seasons, the Michigan football offense is really starting to air the ball out often this fall. Aside from an unimpressive game against Bowling Green, junior quarterback JJ McCarthy has been dominant this year, which is a trend he hopes to keep up during this week’s matchup against Rutgers.

Ron Bellamy gives the latest ahead of this week’s Big Ten opener

Among this year’s wide receiver corps are a number of Michigan football freshman standouts, who have been turning heads throughout fall camp and even into the first few games of the season. Yesterday, Ron Bellamy — Michigan’s WR coach — gave the latest on these rising star Wolverines.

“They’re doing well,” Ron Bellamy said of the Michigan football freshman wide receivers. “They’re doing well — you can’t treat them like freshmen. I tell them all the time, ‘Whoever we play, they’re not going to look across and say, ‘Oh, this is an 18-year-old freshman here; take it easy on him.’ No, they are going to be attacking like they would any other player.’ That has to be the mindset, and we don’t treat them like freshmen. Those guys are diligent about their craft. That’s the thing I like about them. And that’s why they’re getting opportunities. Those guys are constantly wanting to learn and making sure that they’re dialed in and detailed in everything that we do.”

Keep an eye out for these freshmen when Michigan football takes the field

Ideally, Michigan football won’t need to rely on these freshman wideouts just yet; however, if you start to see names like Semaj Morgan, Fredrick Moore, and others getting some notable in-game reps, don’t be too surprised. From the sound of things, it seems that the Wolverines are confident in many of these rising stars, and are looking to continue developing them into the next generation of elite offensive skill players to wear the Maize and Blue.



Thank you for reading Blue by Ninety. For more Michigan Athletics and Big Ten content from Blue by Ninety, follow us on TwitterFacebook, and Instagram. You can also subscribe to our YouTube Channel. For feedback, questions, concerns, or to apply for a writing position, please email our Publisher at Cj@BluebyNinety.com. Also, be sure to check out our shop and our podcast, which is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all other streaming platforms. It is because of your support that we have become one of the fastest-growing and most influential Michigan media outlets there is!

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Top analyst has an interesting message for Michigan football fans

Top analyst Joel Klatt has some interesting thoughts about Michigan football heading into the Wolverines’ Big Ten opener this weekend.

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Michigan football fans, Joel Klatt, Big Ten conference, Penn State, Ohio State
Sep 9, 2023; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; Michigan Wolverines wide receiver Roman Wilson (1) celebrates his touchdown against the UNLV Rebels with teammates during the first half at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Reginek-USA TODAY Sports

Last weekend, the Maize and Blue won their third-straight game of the 2023 season, downing the Bowling Green State Falcons by 25 points at home. While JJ McCarthy and the offense struggled, the Wolverines are still undefeated heading into Big Ten conference play this weekend. Still, with Penn State and Ohio State playing great football right now, top college football analyst Joel Klatt has an interesting message for Michigan football fans — he thinks that folks in Ann Arbor should be “antsy” right now.

Joel Klatt has an interesting take for Michigan football fans

Sure, last weekend’s victory over Bowling Green wasn’t pretty; however, Ohio State and Penn State have both seen their fair share of struggles so far this year. In fact, even outside of the Big Ten conference, schools like Texas, Alabama, and even Georgia have not been looking like their usual selves lately. Still, Joel Klatt says that there should be some tension among the Michigan football fanbase due to recent lackluster play during the non-conference slate.

“With what’s going on in the Big Ten East, namely Penn State and Ohio State? I would feel antsy if I were you, Michigan fans,” Joel Klatt explained on his show, ‘The Joel Klatt Show.’ “The one thing that will derail your season faster than anything else is if JJ McCarthy starts to turn the ball over. That’s why I would be antsy.”

“I know you’re going to run the football fine, I really do. I’m pretty confident that the defense is going to play really well. The one unknown is how efficient can JJ (McCarthy) play? Now, he was really good a year ago until late. Obviously, the TCU game (last year’s College Football Playoff semi-final), it got a little bit loose, and guess what? They (Michigan football) lost.”

Thoughts on what Klatt said about the Wolverines heading into Big Ten conference play

Now, I am going to disagree with Joel Klatt a bit here in a few aspects. First off, Michigan football has not proven that it can run the football consistently yet, and the offensive line is yet to mesh. This idea that the rushing attack will be elite this year because it was last year is simply not true — it’s a hard thing to admit, but fans are yet to see the same bruising Wolverines that they did over the past two seasons. Not that it won’t develop, but so far, Michigan is not nearly as dominant on the ground as it was in 2021 and 2022.

Additionally, Klatt said that JJ McCarthy was good in 2022 until late in the season, which is really not that accurate. JJ McCarthy was not seen as a great quarterback until the Ohio State game hit — not to say that fans didn’t see the talent, but he struggled to really get things going consistently until the final three games of the year, including the Wolverines’ CFP loss.

Right now, Michigan football fans should not be too concerned, if you ask me. That said, as the weeks go by and the Penn State and Ohio State matchups get closer, we need to see more from the Wolverines. The fact of the matter is that, with Michigan’s schedule this year, the Maize and Blue can have many shortcomings and still begin the year 9-0 — it’s the final three games that will truly define the 2023 team, so long as they can avoid upset beforehand.


Thank you for reading Blue by Ninety. For more Michigan Athletics and Big Ten content from Blue by Ninety, follow us on TwitterFacebook, and Instagram. You can also subscribe to our YouTube Channel. For feedback, questions, concerns, or to apply for a writing position, please email our Publisher at Cj@BluebyNinety.com. Also, be sure to check out our shop and our podcast, which is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all other streaming platforms. It is because of your support that we have become one of the fastest-growing and most influential Michigan media outlets there is!

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