Michigan Football Preview 2015 – Defensive Overview

Defensive line

Linebackers

Defensive backs

Michigan returns most of a defense that was very good last year. Losing Jake Ryan hurts, though Michigan should be fine at linebacker. The losses that will hurt the most are pass rushers Frank Clark and Brennen Beyer. Michigan needs someone to step up at defensive end. The good news here is that there are a few guys who could do so. I feel pretty confident that at least one actually will.

The team was great against the run last year, and should be again, with plenty of options at defensive tackle. Ryan Glasgow looked like a good nose tackle last year. Willie Henry has a ton of potential. Bryan Mone was a true freshman last year, and was just fine when he was on the field. Maurice Hurst, Jr. looked outstanding in the spring game. Behind them is a solid group of linebackers led by Desmond Morgan, who returns from injury.

Jabrill Peppers returns from injury and has been moved to a position I call defensive weapon. A DB/LB hybrid, he’ll be asked to do a lot this year. I have no doubts that he’s up to the task.

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