As fall camp comes to a close in Ann Arbor and preparations for the first couple of weeks begin, Michigan's depth chart is becoming clearer and clear. Guys who have impressed during practices could see their playing time increase from what it would have been before camp started, but others could have seen their stock fall.
We are now just over a week away from the Wolverines' season opener, which will be Kyle Whittingham's debut as Michigan's new head coach. So which of his guys came out on top in fall camp, and which ones are hoping they can impress enough in practice going forward to earn more snaps?
Winners
1. Travis Johnson
The Michigan wide receiver room got stronger as a whole this offseason, so really that entire position is a big winner, but Travis Johnson was a fast riser as a true freshman for the Wolverines. In a room that is led by last season's leading receiver Andrew Marsh and Utah transfer JJ Buchanan, the WR3 position was wide open for the taking, and Johnson put on a great showing to fill the role.
For the Week 1 depth chart, I do believe it will be Jaime Ffrench who starts in the slot/WR3 position, but Johnson will be used heavily. As true freshmen, Johnson and Salesi Moa were the two highest risers in the WR room, but Johnson is a guy who can do it all, making him one of the biggest winners in fall camp.
2. Nathaniel Staehling
The Michigan linebacker position is the most uncertain group heading into the season, but with Nathaniel Staehling in the mix, there is reason to be optimistic. The North Dakota State transfer has impressed in camp, showing his talent and leadership at a position that has a lot of inexperience. Staehling has been the bright spot of this group, emerging as the anchor and winner in fall camp.
3. Savion Hiter
There is no question that Savion Hiter has been one of the biggest winners in fall camp. As one of the most anticipated freshmen in college football, Hiter has lived up to the hype in fall camp, with coaches and teammates singing his praises. While Hiter may not be the starter, he should see plenty of time on the field.
Losers
1. Andrew Babalola
Andrew Babalola is coming off an ACL tear at the end of fall camp last season, and immediately he was in competition for the left tackle position with Blake Frazier. The sophomore has a lot of promise, but Frazier has looked strong in fall camp; that, coupled with his experience in the rotation last season, means Babalola might not have done enough to win the starting job.
2. Nathaniel Owusu-Boateng
With Staehling looking so good in camp, it certainly cuts into Nathiel Owusu-Boateng's time on the field. Defensive coordinator Jay Hill said the linebacker position will probably be a rotation, but with Staehling and Troy Bowles having so much experience on the field and Chase Taylor being a big riser in camp, Owusu-Boateng might be further back in the rotation.
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