Michigan Football: 5 non-starters who will have key impact in 2019

Ben Mason

One of the things I love most about this Michigan football team is Ben Mason. He has been a real find at fullback and in short-yardage situations the past two seasons, but now in the more wide-open offense, his role would be diminished.

Smartly, the Wolverines moved him to defense and made him a defensive lineman. Mason, who is now 6-foot-3 and 270 pounds, has found a home at defensive tackle and even though he likely won’t be starting, he will be counted on to make an impact, especially as a pass rusher.

Michigan didn’t generate a ton of interior pass rush last season and it’s been a focus going into 2019. And when it comes to Mason’s transition, here is defensive line coach Shaun Nua speaking with the Michigan Insider ($):

"“Yes, he still is screaming. Wired up different. He’s intense every time. Conversation’s intense, practice is intense, conversation’s intense, everything’s intense. There’s no slowing down with Ben Mason, so it’s been great.”"

Even as an offensive player, you could see Mason’s intensity last season and the energy he brought to the offense. As a defensive tackle, he should have a similar impact and can help generate a more impactful interior pass rush alongside Carlo Kemp, Donovan Jeter and freshman Chris Hinton.