Michigan Football: 3 Keys to Wolverines beating UConn

Settle on a pass-rush rotation

The biggest question mark with the Wolverine defense has boiled down to one specific position group — and in reality, one specific part of that position group’s role.

Their pass-rush rotation.

After accounting for 7 sacks against Colorado State in week one, the Wolverines were only able to garner 1 sack against Hawaii — arguably the worst team in all of FBS. The reason for that?

I believe it boils down to having a table pass-rush rotation.

Michigan football, under new Co-Coordinator Jesse Minter, has tried to find the right rotation on the line in pass rushing situations, rotating 6-8 different players throughout the past two games. But eventually you have to settle on some starters.

UConn might not be super talented in general, especially on offense, but their starting quarterback (former Penn State Nittany Lion) Ta’Quan Roberson presents a challenge in regards to containing him. Roberson might not have a top flight arm, but what he does have is top flight speed.

If the Wolverines and Minter wish to contain Roberson then having a settled pass-rush rotation is going to be a major key. Get the same line playing together and let them build that chemistry.

That’s what the past several elite Wolverine d-lines have done, and if this one wishes to recreate previous success they need to to do the same.

Keep an eye out on how the rotation shakes out on Saturday afternoon.