Michigan Football: 5 Wolverines freshmen that are needed in 2019

Mike Sainristil

Last year’s Peach Bowl served as a final reminder that if Michigan football wants to take the next step, a new offensive system was needed.

Even without Devin Bush, Rashan Gary and Karan Higdon, the Wolverines could have won that game. But another conservative gameplan killed them. Michigan thought it could overpower Ohio State and Florida like it did Michigan State, Wisconsin and Penn State.

The difference? Ohio State and Florida are loaded with elite athletes. And if you are that predictable against teams with that kind of size and speed, it’s like running into a brick wall.

Thankfully, Harbaugh recognized a change was needed and hired Gattis. And one of the freshmen who will benefit most from that is wideout Mike Sainristil.

The three-star came to Michigan football as an athlete that had played both wide receiver and corner in high school. But the 5-foot-10 speedster proved to be an ideal fit in the slot and opened eyes throughout spring ball.

While Michigan has a number of talented receivers that are proven, it didn’t have anyone quite like Sainristil and if he can make the same impact when the regular season rolls around, this offense will be much more dynamic.