The Michigan Wolverines are coming off of back-to-back 10-win seasons, but where just inches shy of winning the Big Ten for the first time since the early 2000's. For a program like Michigan, those expectations don't change - they expect to win the conference title this year despite having the least experienced team in the country. Here are four reasons why they can do just that:
1) Wilton Speight's continued growth
Speight had to beat out John O'Korn for the Michigan starting job then he exceeded expectations last season. In a run-first offense at Michigan, he completed 62.5% of his passes for 2,375 yards, 17 TDs and just six interceptions. He's not a dynamic athlete, but he is perfect for Michigan. Another year under Jim Harbaugh should only help Speight, and now that he's the unquestioned leader, we're going to see him blossom even more.
2) Rashan Gary's breakout season
Gary had a limited role as a freshman in 2016, but still found a way to make a significant impact whenever he was on the field. Now, the Wolverines are counting on him to become a star after losing 10 defensive starters from last year's team - and he's certainly looking the part. Gary may be the most impressive athlete on Michigan's roster, and with more playing time, he should drastically improve on the 24 tackles, five tackles for loss, one sack and six quarterback hurries he had as a freshman.
3) Talent replacing veterans
Yes, losing 19 starters is never a good thing. However, Michigan has become one of those programs that can simply reload in these situations instead of rebuilding. Gary is just the tip of the iceberg as the Wolverines have had top six recruiting classes each of the last two years. Players like Chris Evans, Donovan Peoples-Jones, Lavert Hill and Devin Bush, among others, are ready to become household names.
4) Jim Harbaugh's greatness
Michigan has improved every year under Harbaugh, and now with a ton of young talent that he recruited in tow, the has the ability to take this group to another level. As is the case with every Harbaugh-coached team, the Wolverines will be as prepared and well-coached as anyone. Many freshmen made an impact last year, and adding another year of Harbaugh seasoning to this talented roster should result in big things.
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