Michigan's hopes for a major turnaround in 2026 may depend on the growth of QB Bryce Underwood. Anonymous Big Ten coaches gave their feedback on Michigan to Athlon Sports heading into the new season.

The Big Ten coaches pointed to consistency and decision-making as the biggest concerns in Michigan's games. And analyzed the Wolverines' strengths, weaknesses, and expectations after an unstable 2025 season.

"On offense, you’re gonna have Bryce, Andrew Marsh, and Jaime Ffrench and JJ Buchanan out of the portal,” an anonymous coach stated. “There’s a lot of excitement for what that team can be this year.”

Another anonymous coach pointed towards QB Bryce Underwood's growth, while positivity stayed around his raw tools.

Michigan has rarely used Underwood's mobility last season. Even though he's a great runner, the Wolverines often kept him inside a structured pocket system.

Although Underwood started the first two games of the season, the coaches restricted his playbook early on. The Wolverines unleashed his dual-threat running ability in Week 3 against Central Michigan, where he rushed nine times for 114 yards and scored two touchdowns.

Andrew Marsh finished his freshman year with 45 receptions for 651 yards and four touchdowns. French played in four games, recording one reception for six yards. Both are considered elite playmakers.

Meanwhile, J. J. Buchanan had over 2,000 all-purpose yards during his final two seasons and 11 touchdowns on offense.

Along with Underwood, the cornerback also appears to be one of Michigan's biggest strengths.

Michigan Wolverines' One of The Biggest Strengths Is Cornerback

Michigan enters the 2026 season under a new staff and roster with high expectations. With some positions still not settled, the cornerback position, which includes Jyaire Hill, Zeke Berry, and Smith Snowden, appears to be one of Michigan's strengths, according to Ryan Zuke of MLive.

The cornerbacks coach, Jernaro Gilford, said on the 'In the Trenches' podcast hosted by Jon Jansen, "I'll be 100% honest with you, we have some talent. We have probably half the group that can play, play, you know what I mean?"

Hill and Berry both return in 2026. The strong defense could become a major boost for QB Bryce Underwood and the team.

With the hopes of making it to the playoffs of the 2026 season, Michigan continues to develop on both sides of the ball.

What do you think about the opinions of Big Ten coaches? Let us know in the comments.

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Written by

Hetal Moleshri

Edited by

Rudra Dubey