Coaches Corner: Offense

Many posters have said and talked about that all Michigan needs is better quarterback play. Will 100% agree quarterback play is #1 issue? However, this team has many more issues, and really needs a complete roster overhaul. Will look at needs and even some overview of current roster. In addition, look forward to hearing others thoughts.

Team:
Michigan needs some stars, not just good players but stars, difference makers. I know I am broken record, but will not let up on this. There is no Long, Woodson, or Edwards on this roster. There is a couple on the roster today who could be stars, and maybe couple coming in with that type of talent. On current roster, Shaw is showing some star power and Odoms is showing some flashes of it. After that, well maybe Martin, but that is it for players we have seen.

Offense:

1) Quarterback:
Yes, it is still #1 need. In addition, we have two additional athletes with better skills than any currently on roster. Of two Beaver have most upside, bigger, stronger arm, and that gunslinger attitude that many of the great ones have, but Forcier has outstanding football sense and makes very good decisions. Therefore, it will be fun to see how this shakes out. I doubt and hope Coach Rod and staff are satisfied and would not be surprised in quarterback is not #1 priority for recruiting next year.

2) Split Ends:
Michigan needs a speedy split end that can hit a seam and take the ball to the house. Not just move the chains, but also take it for huge yardage. For Michigan to continue to improve the offense, they have to back those safeties up and create some space. Spread offense will not be as effective if you do not effectively spread the defense with you.

Northwestern cornerbacks were able to crowd line of scrimmage and takeaway short passing game Michigan used against Minnesota. Other thing Michigan needs at split end is some down right nasty stalk blockers. Players who get into opponents face and frustrate the HELL out of them. Michigan used to be known for this across the country and needs to get back there. Because cornerbacks are less likely to press and crowd if you can get in their face and block them. Can Stonum be one of them, jury is still out. Haulstead definitely has the aggressive physical nature we need and McNeal has speed to hit those seams.

3) Offensive Tackle:
Yes, we can stand upgrade across offensive line, In general, but offensive tackles in particular. Shilling is natural offensive guard and Ortmann is more of right tackle forced to play left tackle. He has big problems with speedier defensive ends and gets holding calls on backside cut offs or getting second level. Not to mention Saturday Northwestern defensive ends were able to create pressure in three man rush.

4) Offensive Center:
Molk is getting better and showing some signs, but Michigan still needs some depth and competition at this key position.

5) Slots:
Michigan has one player at this time capable of making the type of plays necessary from this position, Odom, maybe T-Rob eventually help if healthy. This is some one like the one Gallon is vital. We cannot continue to live with tight ends and large split ends at slot and be very successful.