Michigan Football: Four Utes to Watch Against the Wolverines

Sep 20, 2014; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Utah Utes linebacker Jared Norris (41) tackles Michigan Wolverines running back Justice Hayes (5) in the first quarter at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

Jared Norris (LB)

Jared Norris will need to be the man this season on Utah’s defense. There’s room for someone to really emerge without stud defensive end Nate Orchard.

The Utes return all three starting linebackers from 2014, and Norris is going to be the anchor of that talented group. He specializes in stopping the run, which is going to be a big problem for a Michigan team that doesn’t have a solidified option at running back.

Norris plays up and down at 6-foot-2, 234 pounds. Last season against Michigan he recorded nine tackles, eight of which were solo, and 2.0 sacks for six yards. He was far and away Utah’s leading tackler in 2014 with 116 takedowns.

Michigan will be in big trouble if it can’t pick him up regularly and take away the enormous impact he could have.

Next: Devontae Booker