What to watch for in 2025 Michigan spring football game

Some college football teams opted to cancel their spring football games, but Michigan wasn’t one of them. The Wolverines will open their doors to fans free of charge at 11 a.m. on Saturday for a noon kickoff between the Maize team and the Blue team. The game will be broadcasted on the Big Ten Network roughly a week after.

Below is a list of players to look out for at each position.

Notable storylines in 2025 Michigan spring football game

Quarterback – Bryce Underwood and Jadyn Davis

Freshman quarterback Bryce Underwood, the No. 1 recruit from the class of 2025, will be taking snaps in front of fans for the first time as a Wolverine. The college football world will have a close eye on Underwood, as he could be the sports’ next superstar. 

With new offensive coordinator Chip Lindsey at the helm, changes to the offense are expected. Fresno State quarterback transfer Mikey Keene has been battling an injury, but whether it’s Underwood or redshirt freshman quarterback Jadyn Davis under center, Saturday is an opportunity to see what the new scheme looks like.

Running Back – Justice Haynes and Jordan Marshall

Justice Haynes has impressed the staff since transferring from Alabama in the offseason, and he could end up being one of the best portal pickups for any team. Haynes is a quick, physical back that could excel in the Michigan run game.

Jordan Marshall earned himself a chance at a major role with his 100-yard performance in the ReliaQuest Bowl to end the 2024 season. As long as the bowl game wasn’t a fluke, Marshall could end up seeing nearly the same amount of touches as Haynes.

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Wide Receiver – Donaven McCulley and Andrew Marsh

Donavan McCulley transferred from Indiana early in the winter, and the Wolverines will likely wish it happened sooner. The 6-foot-5 wideout has experience and a history of production in the Big Ten, and he could end up as WR1 this fall.

Andrew Marsh is one of Michigan’s highest rated receiver recruits in the past decade. Although he doesn’t offer the same size advantage as McCulley at 6-foot-0, Marsh is shifty and could develop into a threat for defenses.

Offensive Line – Andrew Babalola and Brady Norton

Freshman offensive tackle Andrew Babalola was a five-star recruit and one of the top rated players in the country at the position. At 6-foot-6, 300 pounds, Babalola was the top pick in the spring game draft, and he could anchor the offensive line for years to come.

Brady Norton arrived at Michigan by way of Cal Poly (FCS), but based on his feelings towards Ohio State, he was meant to don the winged helmet. Norton is trending towards being a starter, so there will be a close eye on his performance.

Defensive Line – Damon Payne and Tré Williams

Damon Payne (Alabama) and Tré Williams (Clemson) are expected to help fill the gap left by the departure of Mason Graham and Kenneth Grant. The transfers could end up playing side-by-side, and the defensive line should be a talented, deep unit as a whole.

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Linebacker – Nathaniel Owusu-Boateng and Jimmy Rolder

Nathaniel Owusu-Boateng could develop into one of the best inside linebackers Michigan has had in recent memory. Owusu-Boateng managed to stand out while playing at one of the top prep schools in the country in IMG Academy.

Jimmy Rolder is entering his senior year, and he could be one of the best kept secrets in the Big Ten. Rolder is explosive, violent, and has a motor that never stops. As a major role is likely on the Horizon, watch for Rolder to be on a mission.

Defensive Back – TJ Metcalf and Shamari Earls

Along with his brother, Tevis, TJ Metcalf transferred from Arkansas in the offseason. The latter is entering his junior season and could be a major contributor for the Wolverines.

Shamari Earls enrolled at Michigan early and has turned heads in spring practice. At 6-foot-2, 203 pounds, Earls has the tangibles to be a factor as a freshman.

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