The expectations are always high for Michigan football.
Kyle Whittingham understood that when he took the job. He essentially said that missing the College Football Playoff would be a disappointment.
It's hard to disagree with that. The Wolverines have enough talent to make the playoff. The Wolverines just need some quality coaching. That's where Whittingham comes in.
Michigan feels like one of those teams on the fence for the playoff. Michigan was in the mix last season until Ohio State won in Ann Arbor. The schedule isn't easy. It's manageable enough, though.
Michigan will need nine or 10 wins to make the College Football. However, at least one analyst, Brett McMurphy of On3, has the Wolverines falling short of the playoffs this season.
A strange bowl projection for Michigan
The Wolverines ended up in the Citrus Bowl last season, after a 9-3 record in the regular season. This year, they are projected to play in the Las Vegas Bowl. That's not necessarily the weird thing. That's the opponent, which McMurphy projects to be USC.
The Trojans aren't on the schedule this season, so that makes more sense. However, it's odd to have two Big Ten teams heading to the same bowl game.
Michigan is set to have Bryce Underwood in his second season as a starter. With a dedicated QB coach, an upgrade at head coach, offensive coordinator, and defensive coordinator, plus an experienced O-line coach, the Wolverines' offense should be much improved. The defense should be, too, and of course, special teams.
It's hard not to imagine Michigan being better. But will that lead to a playoff berth? We will have to wait and see. If not, it will feel like a disappointment.
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