Michigan Football: Is this Jim Harbaugh’s Best Defense?

The stars of the defense

In 2022, Michigan’s defense was referred to as a “no star” defense. Everyone was responsible for their piece only. And that worked well, but I think most people prefer a defense that has some stars. Well, look around. There’s a legitimate argument that there are superstars in every position.

On the defensive line, Mason Graham (who is injured now) and Kris Jenkins have performed like superstars. Kenneth Grant, Jaylen Harrell, Braiden McGregor, and Derrick Moore have shown flashes of superstardom. As crazy as it sounds, this defensive line has the potential to be better than the 2016 defensive line that featured Rashan Gary, Mo Hurst, Chris Wormley, Taco Charlton, Chase Winovich, Ryan Glasgow, and more.

There are tons of stars along the line, and they’ve been destructive thus far. The Wolverines have been applying pressure with four men rushing and have stuffed opposing running backs. While we won’t get to see the true talent of this line until Penn State, they look incredible.

At the linebacker position, Junior Colson, Michael Barrett, and Ernest Hausmann all look like stars. It appears that Colson has taken a leap and is comfortable being at leader of the defense. Michael Barrett is even more polished and has not made many mistakes. And Ernest Hausmann might just have the most potential of them all.

Hausmann has flashed Devin Bush potential with his sideline to sideline speed and playmaking ability. He’s still a bit raw, but by the end of the season, he should be a phenomenal player.