Michigan Football: 4 Position battles to watch for Wolverines in 2020

O-line depth chart is taking shape

The offensive line has been seen as a big question mark for Michigan football heading into the 2020 season, but actually, it should be a strength, especially with Jalen Mayfield back.

With Mayfield starting at right tackle and Ryan Hayes on the left side, the Wolverines should be very solid at tackle. Hayes started and saw some action last season, so he’s not a novice.

In the same “Inside Michigan Football” podcast, Harbaugh went in-depth on the offensive line and had this to say about center Andrew Vastardis:

"“Andrew Vastardis is really emerging as a starting offensive lineman and fifth-year player and a tremendous leader on the offensive line. I think that’s been tremendous. I feel like he’s an experienced player, but also going to be a very fine player for us at center.”"

Notice that he used the word “starting” in reference to Andrew. The injury to Zach Carpenter made a difference there, but Vastardis has impressed the coaching staff and at center, having an experienced leader is never a bad thing.

Once Carpenter gets healthy, he will be there in case Vastardis falters, but he should be starting against the Gophers.

Harbaugh also indicated that Andrew Stueber would be the starting right guard, leaving Chuck Filiaga and possibly Karsen Barnhart, among others to compete for the left guard spot.

Harbaugh noted that Filiaga has been “tremendous” but he offered praise to Barnhart too and if the Wolverines want their best five on the field, he could get consideration inside.

All in all though, Michigan football fans have plenty of reason for optimism with regards to the offensive line and the running game as a whole.