Much of the talk coming out of the Michigan football spring game was about the play of quarterback Bryce Underwood.
But a quarterback is usually only as good as his offensive line, and while it was just a glorified scrimmage, the offensive line wasn't very good. Underwood was sacked twice in the first quarter and was under duress on some of his other throws, too, with just nine pass attempts.
That's the same offensive line that is expected to return essentially four starters from last season, with others who have starting experience in the fold, too.
Yet, Kyle Whittingham isn't worried and Michigan football fans shouldn't be either.
Kyle Whittingham isn't stressing about O-line for one major reason
That reason is Jim Harding, the long-time offensive line coach Whittingham brought to Michigan football from Utah. Saturday wasn't perfect, but the season is months away.
There are people questioning Michigan's pass protection development this spring.
— Chase Bachman (@ChaseBachman) April 19, 2026
Kyle Whittingham: "I don't have a big concern about it because I know Jim Harding's track record."
Praise for the Maumee native and Toledo alum 🙌 pic.twitter.com/UXwp7kvr0N
"I don't have a big concern about it because I know Jim Harding's track record," Whittingham said on Saturday via Chase Bachman.
Harding has coached numerous all-conference selections and NFL draft picks, including two Utah tackles expected to go in the first round in Thursday's NFL draft.
The Michigan offensive line had some struggles, but it's not like the starting five was all together. Evan Link got beat for a sack. He's also probably going to play inside this season.
Michigan returns Jake Guarnera, Andrew Sprague and Blake Frazier, all starters from last season's team, along with Link, who started all of 2024 at right tackle. Nathan Efobi and Brady Norton also have starting experience. That's six, plus Andrew Babalola should be in the mix this fall.
It will be interesting to see what the best five looks like when everyone is healthy. Remember, Babalola was a five-star recruit coming out of high school, and was on track to be the starting left tackle last season, before his knee injury.
Talent isn't an issue. Coaching won't be either, and by the time the first game rolls around, the Michigan offensive line shouldn't be a concern.
It should be a strength.
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