5 reasons to be optimistic about Michigan's playoff chances in 2025

Here are five reasons why Michigan football fans should be optimistic about the Wolverines making the College football Playoff.
Team Blue quarterback Bryce Underwood (19) runs against Team Maize during the second half of the spring game at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor on Saturday, April 19, 2025.
Team Blue quarterback Bryce Underwood (19) runs against Team Maize during the second half of the spring game at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor on Saturday, April 19, 2025. | Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
2 of 5

A dynamic running game

Michigan was good at running the ball last season, especially toward the end. But the Wolverines should be even better this season.

Jordan Marshall showed what he can do in the ReliaQuest Bowl, rushing for 100 yards against an Alabama defense that didn't have to worry about the passing attack at all.

Even with Davis Warren out of the game, Marshall still ground out yards in the second half, leading to a key field goal, and more time off the clock.

The offensive line was another issue last season. Evan Link struggled at right tackle. He might be the left tackle this season, at least to start. The rest of the offensive line, outside of right guard, should benefit from a year of seasoning.

Four of the guys who started the bowl game will be back. And running the ball down the stretch wasn't an issue, so with Marshall and talented Alabama transfer Justice Haynes, who averaged six yards per carry at Alabama (5.9) the running game should be better.

With Underwood also being a factor, Michigan should average over 200 yards on the ground per game in 2025.