Michigan Wolverine Football: Competitive Situations To Watch — Part I
Posted at 5:00pm — 8/1/2014
Michigan Wolverine Football: Competitive Situations To Watch — Part I
1) Strong Side Defensive End:
Brennen Beyer (97) vs. Taco Charlton (33):
Based on spring, Beyer will go into fall camp as the starter. Taco had a real opportunity in spring and his performance was somewhat disappointing.
October 13, 2012; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Illinois Fighting Illini running back Donovonn Young (5) is tackled by Michigan Wolverines defensive end Brennen Beyer (97) in the first quarter at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY SportsBeyer is a good, not a great player, he does defend the run and the edge much better than Taco at this point. Taco is basically a one dimensional player (rushing the QB) and has not really developed as quickly in that area. Good news in Taco has had a good off-season.
Taco (opinion alert) was just one of those high school kids who was able to dominate in high school just based on his physical talent and has to learn the proper work ethic. He seems to be maturing. Also, do not forget about Henry Poggi (7) who physically is not as imposing as Taco, but is much more of a “football player”
October 20, 2012; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans cornerback Arjen Colquhoun (36) tries to lateral the ball during a kick off in the fourth quarter as Michigan Wolverines linebacker Royce Jenkins-Stone (52) tackles him at Michigan Stadium. Michigan won 12-10. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports2) “SAM” Linebacker:
Royce Jenkins-Stone (52) vs. James Ross III (15):
Flip a coin on this one, some really like Ross, others believe RJS has done enough to be considered the favorite. It is a position change for both Ross has much more game experience, but needs to show more consistency. RJS has physically developed and offers an additional ability to rush the passer. Probably early in the year, both will play barring injury.
3) Linebackers:
Right now we all know Jake Ryan (47) is going to start. that leaves Ben Gedeon (42), Joe Bolden (35), and Desmond Morgan (48). All can play either linebacker position so injuries and fall will determine the starters. Bolden as I mentioned had the best spring, Gedeon may be the best athlete, Morgan has the most experience. Again, this could be the case where early in the season we see all getting snaps until someone breaks out.
Where does Jabrill Peppers (5) fit in? Coach Hoke says he will start out at nickel (which remember because of the modern day college offenses Michigan plays most snaps in Nickel. To me it is a three man competition with Blake Countess (2), Raymon Taylor (6) and Jourdan Lewis (26) with Channing Stribling (8) being #4. Again based on spring, I think Lewis plays so the other spot is between Taylor and Countess. Word is Countess is much quicker than a year ago and has really worked hard this off-season. So, I am going with Countess.
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Written by GBMWolverine Staff — MaizeMan
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