Michigan Football: Dax Hill poised to be next defensive star

Dax Hill had an immediate impact as a freshman for the Michigan football program and here’s why he will be the Wolverines next defensive star.

Once Michigan football secured the commitment of Daxton Hill, the Wolverines knew they got a playmaker. Hill was the 14th ranked recruit in the 2019 class according to 247 sports. He was the crown jewel of the 2019 class.

Hill didn’t waste any time getting onto the field as a freshman, appearing in the final 12 games of the season.

Earning his stripes on special teams with Michigan football, Hill caught a pass on a fake punt play against Army. He raced ahead for a gain of 25 yards putting the offense in position to score.

Snaps were limited for the talented freshman on defense. He was playing behind Josh Metellus and Brad Hawkins at the safety position.

Hill was still learning Don Brown’s complex defense. As he got more game reps it was apparent that he needed to see the field more. That is exactly what happened.

It was apparent from the beginning that Dax had a nose for the football. In the game against Notre Dame, Hill had two fumble recoveries to go along with a pass breakup.

Those were not the only turnovers that he created. In the game against Indiana, he got his first interception.

Dax Hill ended his freshman year with 36 total tackles, 25 solo, 3 PBU’s, and 1 INT.

Hill will be unleashed as a sophomore

The path to playing time for Hill was obstructed by the likes of Metellus and Hawkins in 2019. With Metellus graduating, that hole will need to be filled. That’s where Dax comes in.

Learning Don Brown’s defense is no easy task especially for a younger player. Brown likes to give the offense multiple looks and keep them guessing.

Hill earned his playing time as a freshman and that aided in his development. The game action coupled with an off-season of learning should make him the starter against Washington.

Brown has a lot of exotic looks that he gives defensively. He can use Hill to be a disrupter for opposing teams. Whether that is safety blitz or covering the best receiver. Hill is athletically gifted and Brown will use that to his advantage.

It seemed that every time Hill entered a game in 2019 his name was being called. He has a nose for the football and will have more opportunities to shine in 2020.

The defense for Michigan football will be younger this season, so look for Dax Hill to have a breakout season and anchor the secondary for the  Wolverines.