Michigan Football: 3 Potential Breakout Players on Defense

3 of 4

LINCOLN, NE – NOVEMBER 05: Linebacker Ernest Hausmann #15 of the Nebraska Cornhuskers and defensive back Marques Buford Jr. #1 tackle running back Mohamed Ibrahim #24 of the Minnesota Golden Gophers during the third quarter at Memorial Stadium on November 5, 2022 in Lincoln, Nebraska. (Photo by Steven Branscombe/Getty Images) /

LB Ernest Hausmann

A transfer from Nebraska, Hausmann is a player that could be an All-Big Ten linebacker by the end of the season. He earned a starting spot at Nebraska as a freshman and showed tons of potential. While Michigan football has linebacker depth, I think he’ll be starting alongside Junior Colson by the end of the season.

Linebacker is an extremely under-appreciated position in football. They have to defend the pass, rush the quarterback, and stop the run. Michigan already has one All-American caliber linebacker in Junior Colson, but they’ve been lacking at the other linebacker position.

The Wolverines were very fortunate that Michael Barrett stepped up last season, and Barrett will continue to play a key role. Hausmann, however, has the potential to bring this defense to an even higher level.

Having two dominant linebackers, along with the other elite talent on the defense, would bring this group to a level that rivals Georgia. It’s what Michigan has been missing forever, and it’s a piece that could ultimately push them over the hump.

Hausmann has the physical attributes and the refined skill that could make him an early draft pick in a few seasons. I expect him to make a big impact.

Home/Michigan Football