Michigan football should look quite a bit different and the same entering the 2026 season. While the stylistic identity of the Wolverines isn't really changing, as they'll play from the inside out -- with attempts to dominate in the trenches, run the football, and be staunch defensively -- there could be more fireworks from Kyle Whittingham's team compared to Jim Harbaugh or Sherrone Moore's tenures. Thus, it will be interesting to see what the maize and blue get from the skill positions, particularly on offense.
Much of the hopes of the season are pinned on quarterback Bryce Underwood, who had a decent but shaky freshman campaign. Though some are already writing him off, he has a new offensive coordinator in Jason Beck, who has a track record of maximizing his production at the position.
The Athletic detailed its favorite move of the offseason for every Power Four team, and for the maize and blue, it wasn't any transfer or even the head coach who earned a mention -- it was Beck coming to Ann Arbor.
Michigan: Hiring Jason Beck as OC
The Wolverines held onto their top-15 recruiting class, including five-star running back Savion Hiter, during the tumultuous Sherrone Moore situation and ensuing coaching change. That was obviously important, but Beck’s decision to follow Kyle Whittingham to Michigan is a bigger deal. Beck did a very good job last year with QB Devon Dampier at Utah, and I’m betting he’s going to unlock all of Bryce Underwood’s talents.