Michigan Football: Predicting defensive starters after spring ball

After the completion of Michigan football’s spring practices, here is a projection of what the defensive starters could look like for the Wolverines. 

One of the common questions coming out of spring is what does the two-deep look like? For Michigan football, especially on the defensive side of the ball, that’s an interesting question.

Part of the reason for that is the Wolverines have a new defensive coordinator in Mike Macdonald and a new co-defensive coordinator in Maurice Linguist, who is also coaching corners.

The Wolverines also have new coaches at linebacker and safety. A new scheme means some players don’t fit as well as they did under Don Brown.

So expect a few more transfers before it’s all said and done. But at this point, I wouldn’t expect Michigan football to lose anyone that would start next season.

As to who that will be? Here are the predictions starting with D-Line. (Also here’s the offense)

D-Line

NT: Mazi Smith

Having an odd front requires a nose tackle and no one on the Michigan football roster is better suited for that job than Smith. He was a high-ranking four-star recruit and supposedly stood out this spring. Now, it’s time to live up to his recruiting status.

DT: Chris Hinton

Much like Smith, Hinton also needs to take a step forward in his junior season. Last year was limited, so it’s hard to say Smith and Hinton have played two full seasons, but Hinton was rated by some as a five-star out of high school and if the defense is going to improve, he will be a big reason why.

DT: Julius Welschof

Donovan Jeter is another guy who will see time at this position and could be starting here. I just think this job which is basically that of a five-technique would be better filled by Welschof who is 6-foot-6. He flashed some potential last season and I could see him working his way into the starting lineup.

DE/OLB: Aidan Hutchinson

This is going to be the most important role on the defense. Getting pressure on the quarterback is essential in any defense and this is the spot to do it. Obviously, you hope that Macdonald has creative ways to get to the quarterback too, but if you can just do it by rushing four and Aidan off the edge, that’s the way to go. If Hutchinson is healthy and has a big year, it would go a long way.