Michigan Football: 5 breakout candidates for Wolverines on defense

Can Vilain provide some pass rush?

One name that Michigan football fans are familiar with on the defensive line, who hasn’t really lived up to the hype is defensive end Luiji Vilain.

Vilain was a highly-touted prospect coming out of high school and was nearly a five-star defensive end when he committed to Michigan football. The expectations have always been high for the 6-foot-4 defender who’s listed at 244 pounds, but injuries have hindered him up to this point.

Last season, Vilain was finally able to stay healthy and contribute, even though it was in a limited fashion. With Josh Uche, Kwity Paye and Aidan Hutchinson, as well as Mike Danna, Michigan had plenty of pass rushers.

But still, Vilain showed improvement and against Notre Dame, he has three solo tackles, a tackle for loss and a sack. And now, you have to wonder if that’s a sign of things to come. Hutchinson and Paye are still entrenched as starters, however, there is no doubt that Michigan football needs more pass rush and Vilain could be the guy to deliver it.

If Vilain is ever going to realize the hype and have a breakout campaign, 2020 is his chance and I expect him to notch a few more sacks next season, provided he avoids the injury bug.