Michigan’s defense was top tier throughout the 2021 season. The Wolverines ranked No. 8 in scoring defense and No. 20 in total defense. The unit had a Heisman finalist in Aidan Hutchinson and another great edge-rusher opposite Hutchinson in David Ojabo — that duo combined for 27.5 sacks last season.
Hutchinson and Ojabo are in the NFL now, Michigan has a new defensive coordinator for the second consecutive season in Jesse Minter, but head coach Jim Harbaugh believes the team has the right pieces in place to continue excelling on defense.
Without Hutchinson, Ojabo, Daxton Hill, Josh Ross, other players have a chance to shine and show they’re ready for primetime.