Michigan football had over 15 players from its national championship team signed or drafted into the NFL. That includes all-time great quarterback J.J. McCarthy, who is the best signal-caller the Wolverines have ever had, at least in college.
It’s easy to worry about what next season might bring after losing all that talent. Yet, it’s important to remember that in terms of high-end talent, Michigan football has as much as anyone in college football.
On3.com has been releasing its top 100 ranking of college football players ahead of the 2024 season. The top 10 was released on Thursday and Michigan football, along with Georgia, are the only programs with multiple players in the top 10.
Michigan football and Georgia are in elite company
Mason Graham checked in at No. 6 for the Wolverines, while Will Johnson, the elite cornerback, is No. 8. James Pearce of Tennessee is No. 1 followed by Missouri wideout Luther Burden. You’ll notice that no Ohio State Buckeyes made the list.
Of course, Ohio State has talent. But that’s nothing new. Ohio State has had a huge edge on Michigan football in the 247 Sports team talent rankings over the past three reasons, ranking 10 spots higher on average, and it still hasn’t mattered.
That’s what coaching and development will do. Graham committed to Michigan as a three-star. Johnson is a former a five-star prospect. He’s also gotten better and better to the point that he’s the best cover guy in college football.
What should scare anyone wanting to win a national title is the fact that Georgia has two players in the top 10 and one of them is a quarterback. Georgia probably has the most talented team, with the most proven quarterback, and since Jim Harbaugh is in the NFL — the best head coach too.
However, those predicting that Michigan football will fall off a cliff in 2024, might want to remember that the Wolverines still have some elite talent.
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