Michigan Football: Why Wolverines run game will be just fine

One potential weakness that Michigan football fans keep focusing on is the running game and here’s why it won’t be a concern in the end.

While the Michigan football team seems to have plenty of strengths, one weakness that is often mentioned as far as the 2019 season is concerned is the running game or lack of one.

The reason for concern at the position of running back is obvious. Former standout and two-year starter for Michigan football, Karan Higdon, left after graduating and presumed starter, Chris Evans, has been ruled academically ineligible.

That leaves the Wolverines a little light on the depth chart. However, that doesn’t mean they won’t be able to run the ball. In fact, with a veteran in Tru Wilson and two talented youngsters in Christian Turner and Zach Charbonnet, talent isn’t going to be an issue.

Certainly, it would be nice to have Evans and his explosiveness as part of this offense. His ability to create big plays both as a runner and receiver would have been perfect for the offensive system of Josh Gattis. Yet, that role can also be filled by others such as incoming freshman Giles Jackson.

If Evans was going to play the role of the all-purpose back, there is no reason why Jackson, Mike Sainristil or even George Johnson III, couldn’t assist with carrying the rock. All three guys are too light to be a full-time ball carrier, however, they fit the definition of speed in space and it could be another wrinkle to keep defenses off guard.

When it comes to running back, Wilson will play a key role in providing depth. He only carried the ball 62 times last season but he can be the guy to help close out games. He knows how to churn out tough yards in the Big Ten and that will be valuable come October and November.

Turner at least has a season of college football under his belt. He only carried the ball 20 times last season but his experience in the Peach Bowl had to help. Charbonnet also has the build to succeed immediately. He has all the tools to be an every-down back, Michigan just has to see if he’s ready.

One thing people seem to be discounting is an offensive line that is as experienced as any in the Big Ten. The Wolverines return four full-time starters from last season along with Andrew Stueber who also gained starting experience down the stretch.

Those guys are tough, athletic and they excel in the running game. On top of that, with Shea Patterson throwing the ball more and Gattis using more spread sets, that should allow Michigan to face fewer defenders in the box, which should help open things up on the ground.

The point is that if the running game is your big concern heading into 2019, you don’t need to worry. With a trio of talented backs, as well as some potential X-factors, a really good offensive line, a veteran quarterback and Gattis calling the plays, the run game will be just fine.