The Michigan Insider

Sam Webb, Steve Lorenz, and Brice Marich discuss growing odds of landing Oregon State grad transfer defensive tackle Jordan Whitley, the sudden change in Dillon Tatum's recruitment, and the impact of Steve Clinkscale's hire on Myles Pollard. Pollard's dad joins the podcast to share his perspective on his son's recruitment. The podcast closes with a breakdown of Michigan's recruiting staff hierarchy in light of recent additions. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sam Webb, Steve Lorenz, and Brice Marich discuss Michigan's hire of former Kentucky defensive back's coach Steve Clinkscale. The crew projects Clinkscale's impact on recruiting in Michigan, Ohio, and outside the Midwest. Later the discussion turns to his on-field impact and pairing with Ron Bellamy. The podcast closes with a look at how the hire could impact some of Michigan's top 2022 targets. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sam Webb, Steve Lorenz, and Brice Marich discuss Maurice Linguist's departure and explain why it wasn't a sign of ill for the program. The crew then highlights the attributes Harbaugh prioritized in searching for a replacement. The podcast ends with an interview with the father of five-star offensive line target Josh Conerly about his son's recruitment and why Michigan suddenly has a more prominent place in it. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, we take a look at the Michigan basketball team's offseason, looking at newcomers, departures and expectations for the 2021-22 season. We first look at the Wolverines' addition of Coastal Carolina transfer Devante' Jones, and discuss why he is such a strong fit with Michigan. We discuss his on-court impact and how he adds stability to the guard room, how his versatility gives the Wolverines a lot of lineup options and how his culture buy-in is already manifesting itself. Then, we recap Michigan's departures, and why the Wolverines bringing back Eli Brooks was such a big win. We discuss the losses of Franz Wagner, Chaundee Brown Jr., Mike Smith, Isaiah Livers and Austin Davis as well. After that, we look at Michigan's nation-leading recruiting class in the country, and what kind of immediate impact each prospect in the 2021 class can have. We then go position-by-position looking at the starter and depth heading into next season. We close with a look at Michigan expectations heading into next season. We discuss why the Wolverines should be considered favorites for the Big Ten in 2022, and assess where in the top 10 Michigan should be nationally based on the offseason so far. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sam Webb and Brice Marich discuss Michigan's standing with d-line target Jordan Phillips after his dead period visit. The duo also discusses the major targets Will Johnson is recruiting hard on Michigan’s behalf, including Domani Jackson. Later Josh Henschke joins the podcast to reflect upon the Bill Hensley memorial Run N' Slam tournament and highlight the Wolverines’ strong standing with major targets AJ Casey, Ty Rodgers, and JJ Taylor. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, we discuss two newsworthy football topics: Jim Harbaugh’s first public comments in months, and the Wolverines’ involvement in this weekend’s NFL Draft. We begin by breaking down the key takeaways of Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh going on the Wolverines’ official team podcast and offering his assessment of the spring overall and his take on each position group. This leads to discussions among us about A.J. Henning, Michigan having a clear top group along the offensive line, some defensive standouts that could be encouraging for the Wolverines, Harbaugh’s thoughts on the quarterbacks and more. In the second half of the show, we break down Michigan’s involvement in the NFL Draft. We go player by player with the Wolverines’ top prospects, setting over-under picks and prediction where they will be drafted and what their future holds. We also reflect on the players’ careers as recruits and Michigan players. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sam Webb, Brice Marich, Steve Lorenz discuss Tyler Morris' commitment, Courtney Morgan's initial impact, big time additions to the June official visit list, the latest in cornerback recruiting, and what prospects are the best bets to commit to Michigan next.. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In a loaded football episode, we break down two breaking news developments, offer our thoughts on Michigan’s secret scrimmage, offer some quick spring takeaways and answer a host of Michigan football questions. We begin by taking a look at the developing story that Xavier Worthy asked out of his national letter of intent. We discuss Worthy’s recruiting saga, argue that there was pretty strong tampering involved in his decision and discuss what his loss means for Michigan. We next look at recruiting director Matty Dudek’s departure from the Wolverines. We discuss the impact he had on Michigan, why he never seemed to get fair treatment from fans and how the recruiting department might change under new leadership. Then, we take a look back on Michigan’s conclusion of spring practices. We discuss why we think the Wolverines’ commitment to secrecy and keeping fans at arm’s length is a disservice to fans and players alike, along with what it says about the state of Michigan football. We then discuss Michigan’s best position group after spring ball, the spring riser we believe in the most and the position group with the biggest question mark surrounding it. We close by answering a host of listener questions about, well, seemingly everything. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tim McCormick and Sam Webb discuss what Juwan Howard is looking for in the transfer portal and how some of the bigger names would (or wouldn't) fit on Michigan's roster. The discussion then turns to what next year's point guard picture looks like. The podcast ends with an interview with departing senior Chaundee Brown. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sam Webb, Brice Marich, Steve Lorenz, and Josh Newkirk discuss scouting notes after recent trips to see Tyler McLaurin, Tyler Morris, Tay'Shawn Trent, and many more in action. The crew then turns its attention to how the upcoming addition of former Michigan offensive lineman to the recruiting/personnel department will boost the Wolverines' prowess out on the trail. The podcast closes with a discussion of why Justice Finkley, Walter Nolen, and Myles Pollard are the most important visitors on the Maize & Blue's list of June officials. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, we go position by position, assessing the latest and reviewing a busy season ahead for the Michigan basketball team. At each position, we take a look at Michigan’s departures, incoming and returning players, and assess how the group fares heading into the offseason and how important it is for the Wolverines to pursue or look at a transfer addition at the role. We start by looking at point guard, and discuss why Mike Smith’s departure and Michigan’s youth at the point guard position makes the Wolverines’ need for a point guard the highest on the team. We look at Frankie Collins’ game, look at potential transfer additions and weigh the pros and cons of each candidate. Then, we move on to the other positions. We look at Chaundee Brown Jr.’s decision to depart and the void he leaves, as well as how much of that could be filled by Eli Brooks, Kobe Bufkin and Zeb Jackson. In a similar vein, we also look at if the Wolverines need a guard-wing combo player with Brown and Franz Wagner moving on and Caleb Houstan the projected starter at the 3. We outline why Michigan is completely set at power forward, then discuss if the Wolverines need to consider adding a backup center in the transfer portal if Austin Davis departs. We close by questioning if and when the Wolverines will begin reaching out to transfer targets, and other key factors to consider. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tim McCormick and Sam Webb reflect upon Michigan's tournament loss to UCLA with Phil Martelli. The duo also discusses the NBA draft projections for Franz Wagner and Isaiah Livers. They also predict which seniors will return, which freshmen will make an immediate impact, and next year's starting lineup. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, we break down Michigan's dominant win over Florida State in the Sweet Sixteen, their upcoming matchup against UCLA in the Elite Eight and more on the Wolverines' run. First, we look at what impressed us the most about the Wolverines' lopsided win over the Seminoles. We discuss the coaching job done in preparation for the contest, adjustments made along the way, the assertive play of Franz Wagner and Brandon Johns Jr., Michigan's stellar defense and much more. We look into the Wolverines disrupting narratives in the last two games, and debate if Sunday's game changes our view of Michigan's national title hopes. In the second half of the episode, we look at UCLA and its improbable run to the Elite Eight. We discuss the Bruins' talent, why they are playing so well right now and what challenges they present for the Wolverines. We also take a peek at the Gonzaga-USC matchup and which potential Final Four matchup is better for Michigan. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sam Webb, Brice Marich and Steve Lorenz discuss more visits Michigan scheduled for June, the latest in running back recruiting, spring ball rumblings, and preview the dead period visit for five-star DT Walter Nolen. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, we break down how the Michigan basketball looked in the opening weekend of the 2021 NCAA Tournament, along with a look-ahead to the Sweet Sixteen. We begin by looking at the Wolverines’ wins over Texas Southern and Louisiana State. We discuss Eli Brooks, Chaundee Brown Jr., Michigan’s perseverance, strategic decisions and other components that impressed us. We then discussed the up-and-down play of Hunter Dickinson, Mike Smith, Franz Wagner, some tight officiating and other concerning elements from Michigan’s NCAA Tournament run without Isaiah Livers. In the second half of the episode, we go big-picture and look ahead to the Sweet Sixteen. We first talk about the significance of Michigan making six Sweet Sixteen appearances in eight years and four in a row, along with the Wolverines leading the nation with 20 NCAA Tournament wins in the last eight postseasons. We next discuss what Michigan can realistically improve between now and the Sweet Sixteen, and offer an early preview of the Wolverines’ matchup against 4-seed Florida State. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tim McCormick and Sam Webb reflect upon Michigan's win over LSU with an in-depth look at how Juwan Howard's game plan and adjustments affected the outcome. The performances of Eli Brooks, Chaundee Brown, Franz Wagner were highlighted, and Mike Smith's struggles were dissected. Glen Rice joined the podcast to share his thoughts on the Wolverines' success, Juwan Howard's coaching acumen, the top shooters in NBA history, and much much more. Tim and Sam close the podcast with a preview of Michigan's Sweet 16 matchup with Florida State and a debate over whether transfer portal prizes Marcus Carr and Walker Kessler could fit in Ann Arbor. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tim McCormick and Sam Webb reflect upon Michigan's Big Ten tournament showing with a focus shifting roles in the aftermath of Isaiah Livers' injury, how Juwan Howard getting thrown out of the Maryland game deepened his connection with the team, and who has to step up the most for the Wolverines to contend for a title. Charles Barkley then joins the podcast to share his thoughts on Michigan's season and why Juwan has been so successful out of gate. Barkley then discusses U-M's title hopes without Livers and how well Hunter Dickinson's game translates to the NBA. Barkley's appearance rounds out with reflections upon his hall of fame career, his successful transition into broadcasting, and why the age old debate about where Isiah Thomas ranks in the pantheon of great point guards is a ridiculous exercise. Tim and Sam close the podcast with a thorough breakdown of the #8-#9 matchup between St. Bonaventure and LSU, and what a matchup with each would look like for Michigan in the second round. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, we recap the Michigan basketball team's in the Big Ten Tournament, and look ahead to the Wolverines' NCAA Tournament draw and potential opening weekend matchups. We begin looking back on Michigan's first weekend, one that included shooting droughts, comebacks, a season-ending injury, an ejection and more. We try to gauge what to make of the Wolverines' 1-1 record at the event, how worrisome Michigan's shooting spells were, the validity of Juwan Howard's ejection, why every team seems to hate the Wolverines, and the biggest ways Isaiah Livers' injury will impact Michigan on the court. After looking back, we turn to the future, discussing the significance of Michigan being named a 1-seed in the 2021 NCAA Tournament. We look at the Wolverines' region overall, discuss the teams to keep an eye on in the region, debate LSU vs. St. Bonaventure as a round-two opponent and dissect the biggest key for a shorthanded Michigan team making a run in the tournament. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sam Webb, Brice Marich and Steve Lorenz discuss the major visit weekend Michigan is starting to put together in anticipation of the end of the dead period. The conversation then turns to the latest of Michigan's pursuit of top defensive line targets Justice Finkley, Deone Walker, Anthony Lucas, Quency Wiggins, and more. The Oak Park defensive lineman Rayshaun Benny joins the podcast to finally explain why he flipped from Michigan State to Michigan, and when he made the decision to do so. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this podcast, we discuss where things stand with the No. 4 Michigan men’s basketball team, and preview how the Wolverines will look in the Big Ten Tournament. To open, we look at Michigan’s biggest question mark. We discuss the Wolverines’ 1-2 finish to the season, Michigan’s lack of depth, the Wolverines’ ability to play without a potential starter, in a tightly officiated game, Hunter Dickinson’s and Isaiah Livers’ struggles, the team’s potential complacency and other potential pitfall areas. We then zero in on players on the spot, including Dickinson and Livers, Mike Smith and some bench players who may have to step up. In the second half of the podcast, we look at the bracket, discussing potential matchup issues for Michigan and making our final predictions for the weekend. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tim McCormick and Sam Webb reflect upon the conference honors earned by the Wolverines this year with a focus on Juwan Howard and Hunter Dickinson. The conversation shifts to how Illinois and Michigan State defended Hunter Dickinson so effectively and how he can counter similar strategies moving forward. Tim also discusses how/why Franz Wagner and Isaiah Livers will become more prominent on the offensive end in postseason play. Former Michigan great on radio color commentator Terry Mills joins the podcast to share his perspective on the Wolverines' memorable regular season, Juwan Howard's coaching performance, Hunter Dickinson's rise, the importance of Eli Brooks, the crying by Illinois' program, and more, The podcast closes with Tim offering up his prediction on how Michigan will fare in the Big 10 Tournament. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sam Webb, Brice Marich and Steve Lorenz break down why Traverse City (Mich.) Central linebacker Josh Burnham is now trending towards Notre Dame and assess the top known linebacker targets still standing on Michigan's board. The crew then turns its attention to a discussion about the game and recruitment of Greenwood (Ind.) Center Grove quarterback Tayven Jackson and Clovis (Calif.) dual-threat signal caller Nate Johnson. Johnson's QB coach Greg Panelli of the Panelli Passing Academy joins the podcast to breakdown his star pupil's skillset and Michigan's pursuit. He explains by Johnson's athletic traits compare favorably to those of Denard Robinson. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, we go bigger picture, looking at five key ways Juwan Howard and the Michigan basketball team were able to deliver a Big Ten championship in year two. We begin by looking at what Howard inherited when he arrived. We discuss John Beilein’s success, but also the uncertainty that comes with a significant coaching change. We reflect on how Howard was able to earn the trust of Michigan’s now-senior players, and how he was able to establish buy-in and cohesion by incorporating his oft-discussed culture within the program. We then take a brief look at some personnel decisions Howard made. We look at his decision to hit the transfer portal hard, and how Michigan came away as the nation’s biggest winners from the portal last season. We discuss the impacts of Mike Smith and Chaundee Brown Jr., and how that could make the team dangerous in the NCAA Tournament. We also look at the personal mentorship and hands-on coaching role Howard took with Hunter Dickinson, Austin Davis and Michigan’s big men. We close by looking at the kind of coach Howard is, and how that was able to maximize what was an experienced and talented team this season. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tim McCormick and Sam Webb break down the 76-53 loss to Illinois and preview the back to back match-ups with Michigan State. Senior walk-on C.J. Baird joins the podcast to offer an inside look at how coaches and players are responding to the Illini defeat, the preparation for Michigan State, and the culture that Juwan Howard has built. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sam Webb, Brice Marich and Steve Lorenz break down the significance of Will Johnson's commitment and its potential impact on other top targets like Domani Jackson and Tay'shawn Trent. The crew this dissects recent rumblings about Josh Burnham trending to Notre Dame. Later the conversation turns towards new developments in quarterback and offensive line recruiting. The podcast closes with an interview with noted Tennessee trainer James Williams about his star pupil and recent Michigan commit, Kody Jones. Williams breaks down Jones' game, Michigan's increased presence in Tennessee, and the key to why Maurice Linguist is an ace recruiter. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, we look at another impressive week for the No. 2 Michigan men’s basketball team, along with what’s next. We begin by breaking down our biggest takeaways from the Wolverines’ wins over No. 9 Iowa and at Indiana in a span of three days. We look as Michigan’s low turnovers, big man defense, maturity in handling a two-day turnaround and more. We then debate who is Michigan’s best player 19 games into the season, looking at three impressively deserving candidates. After that debate, we discuss who the Wolverines’ unsung hero of the season is. We then close by looking at the big picture of things. We debate which banner is most important between a Big Ten regular-season title, Big Ten Tournament title and Final Four appearance, and assess Michigan’s chances at all three. We then close with a discussion of how important it is for the Wolverines to be a 1-seed, the No. 2 overall seed and more. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tim McCormick and Sam Webb discuss Michigan's impressive victory over Ohio State, Hunter Dickinson's dominant effort versus the Buckeyes, and the impact play of Chaundee Brown and Mike Smith. Bill Raftery joins the podcast to shares his thoughts on Juwan Howard, how Michigan stacks up with Baylor and Gonzaga, his take on the all time greats, and more. The podcast closes with Tim and Sam also debating the quality of refereeing in the Ohio State game and previewing the Wolverines' matchup with Iowa. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sam Webb, Brice Marich and Steve Lorenz break down how the latest coaching staff changes unfolded, then discuss the recruiting impact of Brian Jean-Mary's departure with a specific focus on Josh Burnham. Then attention turns to Ron Bellamy's move to safeties coach and its impact on Dillon Tatum and Michigan's chances with elite safety prospect Jacoby Mathews, Brice shares the latest on Michigan's chances with Top247 DE Joe Strickland. The podcast closes with each staff member sharing his take on which early enrollee will be helped the most by spring ball. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In a loaded basketball episode, we look at both the big-picture and small-picture significance of the No. 3 Michigan men’s basketball team’s win at No. 4 Ohio State. We begin by breaking down what impressed us most about the game, along with which takeaway is most meaningful for Michigan moving forward. In the discussion, we mention what we saw from Chaundee Brown Jr., Michigan’s defense in the second half, the Wolverines’ point guard play and Michigan’s ability to win in multiple ways. Then, we check in on just how good this Michigan team is, assessing Hunter Dickinson’s case as an All-Big Ten player, potentially being the Wolverines best freshman of the 21st century, Chaundee Brown Jr.’s status as the Big Ten’s Sixth Man of the Year and how this year’s Michigan team stacks up against the best that John Beilein produced. Then, we go bigger picture. We discuss how a team could beat Michigan down the road, including 3-point shooting, in-your-face defenses and potential foul trouble. We then look at what Juwan Howard did best as a coach in the past 10 months for this season, looking at how he handled the point guard and center positions along with the culture he’s created. We then close by discussing how Sunday’s game changed our confidence that Michigan would win a Big Ten title. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, we break down five major storylines we're watching ahead of Michigan beginning spring practices. We begin at an obvious spot, breaking down the Wolverines' quarterback battle. We look at the impact of Joe Milton entering the transfer portal, J.J. McCarthy's potential as a true freshman QB candidate and what we want to see from the group in the spring. We then turn to the rest of Michigan's offense, pinpointing position groups that return talent, but need to take the next step. After that, we switch to the defensive side of the ball, assessing a number of changes we expect or are keeping an eye on. We close the episode by looking at three position battles and three early enrollees that we are watching closely in spring ball. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tim McCormick and Sam Webb discuss Michigan's victory over Wisconsin, Isaiah Livers elevating his game and playing like a first round draft pick, Hunter Dickinson dominance on the glass, and Michigan's upcoming matchups with Rutgers and Ohio State. Then Tim and Sam catch up with the great Cazzie Russell to reflect upon his Michigan and NBA careers. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sam Webb, Brice Marich and Steve Lorenz break down Michigan's standing in the recruitment of West Bloomfield (Mich.) DB/ATH Dillon Tatum. The crew also highlights Michigan's ties to Portland (Ore.) Westview WR Darrius Clemons, Phoenix (Ariz.) Brophy Prep cornerback Benjamin Morrison. Later the discussion turns to 2023 & 2024 in-state recruiting, with a focus on quarterbacks Dante Moore and C.J. Carr. The podcast rounds out with a breakdown of 2023 linebacker recruiting and a sneak peak at upcoming coverage of 2022 Ocoee (Fla.) defensive lineman Jordan Phillips. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, we discuss the No. 3 Michigan men's basketball team's return to game action, which included a massive comeback win at Wisconsin in the Wolverines' first game in 23 days. We begin by looking at the micro-level of the game itself. He hone in on Isaiah Livers' senior surge, Hunter Dickinson's rebounding dominance, Michigan's stingy defense and how the Wolverines were able to come back. We outline what impressed us the most, along with takeaways on how good Michigan's defense is and the coaching job Juwan Howard has done. Then, we look ahead. We discuss Michigan's comfort level at the top of the Big Ten standings with Illinois and Ohio State surging, we look at the Wolverines' situation as it pertains to rescheduling games and what, if anything, Michigan can do to emerge alongside Baylor and Gonzaga as national title favorites. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tim McCormick and Sam Webb discuss three messages Juwan Howard gave his team during the pause and Ohio State's rise in the Big Ten ranks during that period. Freshman forward Terrance Williams joins the podcast to reflect upon how the team handled the pause, his personal routine during that period, practices coming off the pause, and a look ahead to upcoming opponents. Tim and Sam close things out with a breakdown of Sunday's matchup with Wisconsin. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sam Webb, Brice Marich and Steve Lorenz break down the commitments of Tennessee prospects Kody Jones and Taylor Groves, and discuss Michigan's growing presence in the Volunteer State. The Wolverines pursuit of the nation's no. 1 defensive tackle Walter Nolen is highlighted. Nolen's coach Marlon Walls shares insight on the talented youngster's game and potential. The crew also covers Michigan's renewed pursuit of four-star Alabama DE Justice Finkley and the NFL all-pro that new defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald compared him to. The crew then gives an overview of defensive line recruiting before turning their attention to corner recruiting with a focus on four-star New Jersey DB Jaeden Gould. The podcast finishes with a lengthy discussion of Michigan's portal strategy and highlighting the Wolverines' rising interest in Birmingham (Mich.) Groves WR/ ATH Jaden Mangham. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We take a look at Michigan's revised and (tentatively) finalized 2021 football schedule, then field a number of questions from listeners about the Wolverines' football team. We open with a look at Michigan's schedule. We parse through the changes, look at the Wolverines' schedule as a whole and discuss our thoughts on Michigan's slate. Next, we quickly refresh out conversation on Michigan's needed coaching changes, then tackle two questions heavily related to Michigan's new look defense. We discuss how a shift to a 3-4 defense would impact Michigan's defensive line and linebacker rooms and which players may benefit the most. We then look at transfer portal targets the Wolverines may look into, along with the needs Michigan may be prudent to address. Then, we open things up to two other questions. We look at JJ McCarthy's potential to contend for the starting job in the spring and fall, while Steve handles a question about defensive back recruiting in the 2022 class. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sam Webb, Brice Marich and Steve Lorenz explain why Shaun Nua's retention was the key to Michigan closing the 2021 recruiting with commitments from defensive tackles Rayshaun Benny, Ikechukwu Iwunnah, and George Rooks. Then the crew looks ahead to 2022 in-state recruiting, focusing on Will Johnson, Tayshawn Trent, Josh Burnham, and Myles Rowser, Then the crew details Michigan's rise with out-of-state recruits Micah Pollard, Myles Pollard, and Kiyaunta Goodwin. Next on the agenda was highlighting Michigan's involvement with "unicorn" recruits Gavin Sawchuk, Keon Sabb, and Walter Nolan. The podcast closes with the crew answering recruiting questions from live stream viewers. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tim McCormick and Sam Webb discuss Michigan's expected return from its in athletic activities, then are joined by the great Dick Vitale for an in-depth interview covering his storied career in coaching and broadcasting. Vitale reflects upon the greatest players he has seen, the great Michigan players he has seen, discusses how this year's Wolverines stack up with the nation's best teams, and more. Then Sam has a recruiting chat with 247Sports national recruiting analyst Eric Bossi about commitments Caleb Houstan and Moussa Diabate, targets Jett Howard, Jarace Walker, Charles Bediako, Efton Reid, Dug McDaniel, Mark Mitchell, and Aidan Shaw. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tim McCormick and Sam Webb discuss Michigan's pause in athletic activities and the advantages and disadvantages of the downtime. The duo then breaks down Michigan's victory over Purdue, the tremendous defensive showing in that game, the significance of Franz Wagner's visible frustration that night, and how the Big 10 stacks up at this point. The podcast finishes with a lengthy chat with Michigan assistant Saddi Washington about the growth of the team defensively, Hunter Dickinson's maturation, the nation's no. 1 recruiting class and the role he played in building it, and more. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, we look at two final coaching changes and the on-field impact they could have for the Wolverines in 2021. First, we look at new wide receivers coach Ron Bellamy's hiring beyond simply the obvious recruiting perks. We discuss his qualifications, why heading a high-school football team is an interesting task and perspective to bring to Michigan's staff and what about Bellamy should make him a hit with the current players and coaches. We also opine on how his arrival impacts other coaches' roles on staff. Then, we look at arguably Michigan's most controversial decisions of all the coaching changes, discussing the Wolverines' decision to move on from Ed Warinner and move Sherrone Moore to offensive line coach. We look back on Warinner's tenure and what we think Moore can add to what will be a modestly experienced offensive line room. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, we look at the Michigan basketball team, which is sitting at 13-1 overall this season but is suddenly being asked to stop practicing and playing for two weeks as the Michigan Athletic department deals with an outbreak of a COVID-19 variant. Among the topics we discuss include: Our initial reaction to the two-week pause, how adversely that can affect the Wolverines, what impressed us most about Michigan's win at Purdue, which players this pause hurts the most, where the Wolverines need to improve and how the pause impacts that, a potential silver lining a two-week pause could potentially cause, where the Wolverines stand in bracket projections and what it means and plenty more. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sam Webb, Brice Marich and Steve Lorenz explain why new roles for Ron Bellamy and Sherrone Moore will give Jim Harbaugh arguably the strongest recruiting staff of his tenure. The crew breaks down the immediate recruiting impact for both coaches, including how five-star CB Will Johnson is affected. Later the trio discusses in-state targets poised to rise up the board, a new defensive line target, and the latest on transfer portal target Henry To'o To'o. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sam Webb, Brice Marich and Steve Lorenz explain why Mike Hart, Mo Linguist, & Brian Jean-Mary will give Michigan a major recruiting boost and how the program's recruiting philosophy might change. The crew goes in-depth on Linguist's fast connection with five-star Will Johnson and the significance of Jourdan Lewis' endorsement. Next on the agenda was a discussion of how Shaun Nua's recruiting approach will change moving forward. And finally the crew discusses major transfer portal target Henry To'o To'o.. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, we assess the hires and coaching decisions made by the Wolverines, looking at the strengths and questions of the new assistants and some big-picture talk. We begin by discussing Michigan's decision to hire former star running back Mike Hart away from Indiana, which we both claim to be the home-run hire of the offseason. We discuss why Hart offers so much more than being a former star player, and what kind of impact he'll make on Michigan's equipped running backs room. Then, we turn to the defensive side of the ball, looking at new defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald, co-DC and cornerbacks coach Mo Linguist and safeties coach George Helow. For each individual coach, we look at the strengths they bring and the question marks about them. We close with some broader discussions on the coaches that stayed, Michigan's timing of the hires, if the Wolverines are "going cheap" this year and if Michigan addressed all of their needs. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tim McCormick and Sam Webb break down Michigan's bounce-back victory over Maryland, how Michigan is capitalizing on team's going all out to take Hunter Dickinson away, why Mike Smith is so key to Michigan's success, the importance of protecting Eli Brooks, and preview the upcoming match up with Purdue. Tim and Sam also have an in-depth discussion with Michigan strength & conditioning coach Jon Sanderson on the amazing growth and development of Michigan basketball players during his time at the helm. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, we offer our initial thoughts to Michigan's new defensive coordinator and react to the Wolverines' men's basketball team suffering their first loss of the season. We open with a brief discussion on Baltimore Ravens linebackers coach Mike Macdonald, who was named Michigan's new defensive coordinator on Sunday. We look at Macdonald's career trajectory, lack of experience, expected energy on the recruiting front. We also discuss the context of Jim Harbaugh choosing him over other options, why it's a big swing for the Wolverines and briefly look at year-one expectations. Then, we switch gears and look at the men's basketball team, which fell to 11-1 with a blowout loss at Minnesota. We discuss Michigan's turnover woes, if the Golden Gophers exposed a blueprint to slowing down the Wolverines' offense, Hunter Dickinson looking human and the bigger-picture impact of the loss. We also discuss if Michigan is still the frontrunner in the Big Ten, among other topics. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sam Webb, Brice Marich and Steve Lorenz are joined by The Michigan Insider's Josh Newkirk for a recap of the Pylon All American. Newkirk highlights the performances of JJ McCarthy, Cristian Dixon, and Junior Colson. Then his attention turn to recruiting rumblings in top targets Domani Jackson, Tyler Morris, and Kaleb Brown... all of whom were at the event. Later Sam, Brice, and Steve address the recent pro-Ohio State buzz with Will Johnson. The trio close out with an in-depth discussion of how the likely hire of Mike Macdonald as Michigan's defensive coordinator will affect recruiting. There's also a breakdown of how some of the position coaching targets could impact the in-state recruiting landscape. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sam Webb and Tim McCormick break down Michigan's dominant victories over Minnesota and Wisconsin, the smothering defense the Wolverines have been unleashing, the impressive two-way play of Michigan's wings. College basketball analyst Clark Kellogg joins the podcast to give his thoughts on the Wolverines' rise to prominence, Hunter Dickinson's impact, the team's championship potential, Juwan Howard's coaching and development, and more. The podcast concludes with an in-depth preview of Michigan's rematch with Minnesota and the unveiling of Tim's all-freshman team. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, we discuss the Michigan football team and Jim Harbaugh agreeing to a five year contract that will extend Harbaugh through the 2025 season. First we discuss the simple question of if this was the best choice for Michigan. We look at the financial situation behind the extension, why firing Harbaugh and hiring a new head coach may not have been as seamless as many think and what to make of the extended timeline. Then, we start to dig into the tea leaves presented by the extension. We discuss how we interpret the greatly reduced buyout, why it might point to Michigan and Harbaugh viewing 2021 as the ultimatum year and why Harbaugh might have agreed to it. Finally, we look at the biggest question mark of it all, and ponder if Harbaugh and Michigan backed into the deal, and if they can legitimately be all-in on the extension moving forward, or if there is still tension and discontent on either side. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, we break down the Michigan basketball team’s 10-0 start, including three straight double-digit wins against top-50 opponents. We begin by taking a look at what has impressed us the most about the Wolverines’ recent wins. We discuss Michigan’s improved defense and Juwan Howard’s adjustments, how bought-in the Wolverines are and how that has translated into into on-court effort. Next, we discuss players beyond Hunter Dickinson who have stepped up. We take a look at Mike Smith’s value beyond the box score (in addition to box-score contributions), along with Franz Wagner’s emergence into the much-hyped two-way player many had expected entering the season. We then turn our attention to some bigger-picture discussions. We look at Michigan’s biggest weaknesses, the Wolverines’ staying power atop the Big Ten standings and more. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices