The Michigan Insider

In this episode, we take a stock report on Michigan’s future, using our 20 under 20 in 2020 story as a guide as we tackle three key questions surrounding the Wolverines’ underclassmen corps. First, we look at which incoming freshmen are likely to burn their redshirts in the 2020 season. We identify four highly likely players, then take a look at defensive depth, and how freshmen could be answering the call at a few positions. Then, we take a look at key players who redshirted last season, but shouldn’t be forgotten about in 2020. Offensive line players are heavily discussed, but so to are several defensive players who are following a common precedent in Don Brown’s defense. Finally, we take a peek at the top of our list, citing six players who have legitimate All-Big Ten potential in the 2020 season. We discuss their NFL futures, ceilings at Michigan and just how good of a young core this is for the Wolverines to build around. 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 field a number of listener questions about the Michigan football team. We begin with a discussion on potential defensive breakout players. We break down Don Brown's candidates for Michigan's next Josh Uche-type edge rusher, looking at the ascension and trajectories of Luiji Vilain, Taylor Upshaw and David Ojabo, and what their roles could look like in 2020 and beyond. We also look a look at Michigan's potential two-deep at defensive tackle, and what the keys are for Donovan Jeter and Mazi Smith to get more run on the field this fall. We then look at the feasibility and the steps it will take for Michigan to return to facilities, and what the Big Ten and University of Michigan may do in terms of allowing facility access again. We also discuss how overrated (or not) Jim Harbaugh is nationally, while taking a peek at coaching rankings. We close with a look at which Michigan decommits the Wolverines might miss the most. 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 the challenges of maintaining a team in the transfer era, and why Cole Bajema's transfer was a predictable outcome. Next, they assess talent and potential impact made by transfers Nojel Eastern and Chaundee Brown. Then the duo reacts to Purdue coach Matt Painter's parting shots for Eastern. And finally, Webb interviews former Wake Forest great and assistant coach Randolph Childress about what he thinks Brown will bring to the table for the Wolverines. 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 addition of Wake Forest transfer Chaundee Brown, who averaged 12.1 points and 6.5 rebounds for Wake Forest last season. We first look at Brown's game as a 2-3 combo guard, so-so shooter and agressive addition to Michigan's backcourt. We also spend time looking at the Wolverines' pursuit of Brown, what it says about Juwan Howard and what makes Brown a high-floor pickup. We discuss the merits of Brown being ruled immediately eligible vs. having to sit out a season due to NCAA transfer rules, his role with Michigan and how the Wolverines can and should use the transfer portal moving forward. Finally, we close with a look at Michigan's 2020-21 roster, address speculation about Nojel Eastern and discuss what happens next for the Wolverines. 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 momentum with the top RB target Donovan Edwards. The trio then tackles the latest in offensive line recruiting, including Top247 target Drew Kendall. Later Webb and Josh Henschke break down how Purdue basketball transfer Nojel Eastern fits with the Wolverines on the Hardwood. The duo finishes with a discussion of transfer targets Chaundee Brown and Jalen Coleman-Lands, and 2021 guard targets Jalen Warley and Angelo Brizzi. Find the 247Sports podcast for your favorite team here! 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 react to the surprising commitment of Purdue guard Nojel Eastern, and also tackle a few more basketball questions we received from listeners. We begin by contextualizing the rarity of a commitment happening so quickly, particularly from the transfer portal. We also break down what we think of Michigan adding Eastern, of Eastern's tenure at Purdue, what went wrong and what kind of impact we think he will have in Ann Arbor. Answering questions from listeners, we tackle comparing Eastern to former Kentucky transfer and Michigan captain Charles Matthews — and caution why that comparison may be unfair — while assessing the fit Eastern provides. We also discuss Juwan Howard's AAU recruiting prowess, Michigan's point guard future, Isaiah Livers' NBA Draft decision, what can be gleaned from such a hurried transfer process and if Michigan will continue to pursue other transfer options. 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 tackle a few listener questions, then discuss a story series Shaw has been doing looking at past recruiting. First, we answer a question predicting who we think will be a surprise player on offense and defense in the 2020 season. We look beneath the typical breakout candidates and new starters, and call our shot on four players who could surprise fans with their impact in the fall. Then, we break down whom we both believe to be the most underrated player on the team, and offer a brief update on the financial importance of Michigan football to other sports at the University. Finally, we look at Shaw's story series on recruiting risers, where he breaks down past Michigan recruits whose stock rose the most in the process. We look at why that matters, what it says about the Wolverines' recruiting approach and what it means for Michigan moving forward. 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 where things stand with the Michigan basketball team after more attrition, and what's next for the Wolverines. We begin by unpacking the transfer departure of rising sophomore wing player Cole Bajema. We look at his brief career with the Wolverines, the potential reasons behind his transfer and what's next for him. We also look at if it's possible that the COVID-19 Coronavirus pandemic played a role in his decision to depart this far into the offseason. From there, we turn our discussion to where the Wolverines could look next to fill now two scholarship openings. Shaw outlines why Michigan should not simply want to bank the scholarship for the 2021 class, while the two break down several transfer options that are available to the Wolverines. Listeners are encouraged to share, rate and subscribe to The Wolverine247 Podcast, in addition to sending questions to Zach Shaw and Steve Lorenz for future discussion 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

In this episode, we take a look at Jim Harbaugh's open letter to the football community, in which he proposes several significant rule changes for college football. We open by looking at the optics of Harbaugh releasing the letter — one that made news nationally — and how it's very hard to call it anything but a win for the head coach and Michigan. We break down the reaction among fans and media members to the letter, and what it means moving forward. We then break down the proposals, looking at the logic and feasibility of players potentially declaring for the NFL Draft early, being able to play in college for five years, being able to return to college if they aren't drafted (or are drafted low) and being able to return to college on the school's dime to finish their degree after their playing career is over. Other proposals, such as reducing scholarship limits, allowing players and families to meet with agents and further discussion on the one-time transfer rule are also mentioned. Listeners are encouraged to share, rate and subscribe to The Wolverine247 Podcast, in addition to sending questions to Zach Shaw and Steve Lorenz for future discussion 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

In this recruiting-heavy episode, Steve Lorenz is joined by 247Sports Midwest recruiting expert Allen Trieu as the two break down a number of key angles in the Wolverines’ 2021 recruiting cycle. Among the biggest key areas discussed are Michigan’s in-state recruiting efforts, including the pursuits of running back Donovan Edwards, offensive guard Rocco Spindler, offensive tackle Garrett Dellinger and others. The two discuss what can make in-state recruiting tricky, what the Wolverines are doing right and wrong on the recruiting trail and more nuance of it all. To see more of the Wolverines’ 2021 recruiting class — ranked No. 10 in the country with 11 commitments, including one five-star and four four-star recruits — check out our commitment page here. To see more of Michigan’s top targets — including a relatively strong in-state recruiting crop and top targets from all over the country — be sure to visit our top targets page here. To view the Wolverines’ 292 outstanding scholarship offers in the 2021 class, visit our offer page here. 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 assess season one of the Juwan Howard era, reflect upon the careers of Zavier Simpson and Jon Teske, discuss the transfers of Colin Castleton and Dave DeJulius, and the pro outlooks for Isaiah Livers and Franz Wagner, The duo also projects the impact of each member of the 2020 recruiting class and discusses how the new G-League option being utilized by former commitment Isaiah Todd will change college basketball and NBA moving forward. 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 significance of two key decisions pertaining to the Michigan men’s basketball team: Colin Castleton’s decision to transfer and Jace Howard’s decision to walk on with the Wolverines in lieu of a scholarship. We open by discussing Castleton’s decision to depart, and why the move makes a lot of sense for the same reasons David DeJulius’ departure did. We look into Castleton’s career with the Wolverines, why the coaching change did him no favors and why he still has professional potential with the right fit. We then look into what we can glean from the two decisions. We discuss Michigan suddenly having two scholarship openings, the latest with Josh Christopher and graduate transfer targets and more on potential attrition or lack thereof. 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 unpack the most significant transfer loss the Michigan men's basketball team has suffered in recent memory, as David DeJulius entered the transfer portal Monday afternoon. We break down the series of events that might have played a role in his departure, and we discuss why the decision might make more sense to DeJulius than it does to a number of fans. We also spend some time reading between the lines, and deciphering how this might impact other decisions — or how other decisions might have impacted this one. We look at what a transfer means in today's college sports market, why DeJulius and Michigan should both be fine and how this transfer differs slightly from typical transfers. We close with a brief look at ongoing situations with Isaiah Todd and Josh Christopher, what to make of social media and the theatrics that come in big-time basketball recruiting and what expectations to have in the coming weeks. 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 what to know about Michigan football recruiting during the COVID-19 global pandemic. First, we break down how things change now that spring visits are postponed until at least the summer. We discuss how teams are getting creative with their recruiting pitch, what the keys to succeeding in contact periods are, how Michigan specifically has altered or remodeled its approach so far and what the Wolverines can do differently. We also discuss how a nationwide quarantine might impact recruits’ approaches to the process, including whether the quarantine might speed up commitments, entice players to stay close to home for college or want different levels of communication from prospective schools. 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 how the mass cancellation of all sports activities, including the Michigan football team’s spring practices, most hurts the Wolverines. Breaking the impact into four parts, we first begin by looking at Michigan’s quarterback battle. We discuss why the battle hurts one competitor more than the other, how the Wolverines approach the contest now that there are 15 fewer practices and what each competitor must do now. Then, we break down how the lack of spring practices hurts Michigan’s early enrollees. We discuss the three incoming freshmen it hurts the most, and where the freshmen go from here. We also discuss position battles that will be delayed a few months, and how Michigan must make up for that lost time. We close with a discussion about the Wolverines’ new defensive coaches — and potentially major tweaks to Michigan’s defense — and why losing the opportunity to experiment and work on things in the spring is costly. 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

Reacting to the Michigan basketball team’s sudden lack of an offseason, we break down five immediate questions that come to mind regarding the Wolverines. First, we break down what has typically been the most pressing offseason question, discussing if Michigan will lose any prospects early to the NBA Draft. We make the case for Franz Wagner and Isaiah Livers to go pro, but also break down the reasons why returning for another season might make more sense. Then, we dissect what to make of Michigan’s potential transfers, why certain players stand out as potential transfers more than others and why transferring is hardly an indictment on the Wolverines or the players. Working a bit more quickly with our final three questions, we look at the impact Michigan’s heralded 2020 recruiting class will impact what is a rather connected core upon its arrival. We also look at stylistic changes Michigan’s coaching staff may look to change and just exactly where we would rank the Wolverines heading into the summer. 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

Recapping one of the most unorthodox sports weeks of our time, we break down our experience covering the Big Ten Tournament, our reaction to the swath of news and break down our thoughts. 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 interviews Michigan assistant Saddi Washington about his four years in Ann Arbor, the development of Austin Davis and Jon Teske, and more. Plus Tim breaks down U-M'swin over Nebraska and loss to Maryland with Sam Webb. Plus discussion of a possible breakthrough in Jon Teske's postgame, Dave DeJulius' career-best performance, and previewing 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

In a news-related episode, we spend the bulk of the episode discussing Wednesday's announcement confirming that redshirt junior center Austin Davis would return to Michigan for his fifth season — becoming the first Wolverine to do so since Jordan Morgan in 2013-14. We break down the rationale behind the decision, how unlikely it seemed, how much Davis has improved, what he could bring in his fifth season and more. We also look at Michigan's scholarship situation, and how Davis' news might impact that. Finally, we close with brief discussions on a few news items that came up this week, looking at Zavier Simpson and Jon Teske's senior night and their legacies and the recent staff changes involving Joe Bolden and Mike DeBord. 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 interviews Michigan center Austin Davis, and breaks down U-M's recent losses to Wisconsin and Ohio State with Sam Webb. Plus discussion of Isaiah Livers' struggles, further assessment of Jon Teske's post game, and previewing this week’s matchups versus Nebraska and Maryland. 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 near polar-opposite of last week's podcast, we break down a rough week for the Michigan basketball team, looking at what went wrong against Ohio State and Wisconsin and what's next for the Wolverines. Guided by listener questions, we first look at two potential starting lineup changes that involve getting Brandon Johns Jr. more minutes, and what the pros and cons of each of them are. We then look at the Wolverines' rapid decline in performance, and discuss just what went wrong and how it can change. We take a brief look at how Michigan's NCAA Tournament prospects change, zero in on perimeter shooting and break down why this is such a critical week for the Wolverines in the scope of the season, even if the stakes in this week's games might not be as high. 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 basketball episode, we break down Michigan’s rapid rise, and where things stand for the Wolverines looking forward. We begin by breaking down how different things look than a month prior, as we even re-read some of Juwan Howard’s quotes after Michigan’s four-game losing streak, and how they look paired with the Wolverines’ success today. We also discuss which elements Michigan has improved the most at, dissecting the Wolverines’ improved post defense, transition defense, overall defense, offensive cohesion and leadership. We then break down how Michigan’s last eight games (especially the last five) can alter the outlook for the Wolverines’ season, as they host Wisconsin, travel to take on Ohio State, host Nebraska and visit Maryland to close the regular season. We take a peek at the Big Ten standings and potential seeding scenarios, then close with a bracketology breakdown, looking at potential seeding, and how the next four games and Big Ten Tournament can change that. 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 interviews former Michigan basketball standout Nik Stauskas, and breaks down U-M's recent wins over Rutgers and Purdue with Sam Webb. Plus discussion of Colin Castleton’s strong showing versus the Scarlet Knights and previewing this week’s matchups versus Wisconsin and Ohio 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

In this recruiting focused episode, we break down the stories behind Michigan’s top 10 targets of the 2021 football recruiting class. We begin by looking at two three-star in-state prospects in East Lansing wide receiver Andrel Anthony and Detroit Country Day’s Caleb Tiernan. We explain why both of their frames make them intriguing prospects for the Wolverines, establish top competitors for both prospects and handicap Michigan’s standing in the two races. We then break down outside linebacker Jamari Buddin, another in-state recruit Michigan will have to battle for. We look at Sherrone Moore’s recruiting impact in-state and in big matchups. We also begin to look at top-200 prospects, breaking down the surprisingly national recruiting race for Californian defensive tackle Victory Vaka, and the less surprisingly national recruiting race for Virginia wide receiver Malcom Johnson Jr. Returning to the state of Michigan, we next break down offensive and defensive lineman Rayshaun Benny, who hails from a local power where Michigan has had difficulty recruiting in recent years. On the other side, we break down Clarkston native and fellow four-star lineman Rocco Spindler, and outline why Michigan is the strong favorite. Our episode concludes with a look at three top-50 prospects. The uphill battle for Iowa tight end Thomas Fidone, in-state running back Donovan Edwards and Virginia running back TreVeyon Henderson. We discuss Michigan’s competitors for each player, and outline how the Wolverines can make an impression this spring and summer. 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 interviews the father of 5-star Michigan basketball target Greg Brown about his his recent visit to Michigan, his connection with Juwan Howard, the appealing presence of African Americans in positions of authority throughout Michigan's athletic department, decision criteria, and more. Plus Sam and Tim McCormick discuss Michigan's victories over Northwestern and Indiana, and the abrupt end to John Beilein's tenure with the Cleveland Cavaliers. 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

Taking a look at the Michigan basketball team, we break down the Wolverines’ win over Michigan State, and what it means moving forward. First, we look at what some of the keys to Michigan’s win. We dissect improved defense from Franz Wagner, Eli Brooks and the entire team, how far the Wolverines’ bench has come, the positive impact on the stat sheet and beyond that Isaiah Livers’ return to the lineup can bring. We also look at some schematic changes, and the team’s energy in the surprising win. We then break down what the Wolverines’ final eight games look like, and where Michigan still needs to improve to come out on top. Among the areas discussed include consistent shooting, more offensive production from Jon Teske, more reliable showings from the Wolverines’ sophomore class and furthering some recent trends. We then close by looking at Michigan’s bracketology breakdown, and other notes to watch in Michigan’s pursuit of the NCAA 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

Following the news that Colorado head coach Mel Tucker had accepted the job to take over Michigan State’s head-coaching vacancy, we dissect what the hire means for the Spartans and, indirectly, the Wolverines. First, we look at how good of a hire Tucker is for Michigan State. We break down his background at Michigan State, Ohio State, at big-time programs such as Alabama, Georgia, LSU and in the NFL, and opine on what he brings to East Lansing after one season with the Buffaloes. We also look at the optics of the hire, including whether Tucker was in the wrong for initially saying no to the job, the timing and how the situation changed so quickly for the Spartans. Next, we look at what kind of program Tucker is inheriting. We look at what kind of recruiting impact Tucker will have, how and how much that will impact Michigan, the importance of Tucker’s offensive coordinator hire and what the next two years can and should look like for the Spartans on the field. 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 interviews 5-star Michigan basketball target Josh Christopher about his standout career at Lakewood (Calif.) Mayfair, his connection with Juwan Howard, the appealing attributes of his final five schools, his decision criteria, timeline, and more. Plus Sam and Tim McCormick discuss Michigan's loss to Ohio State, the evolving role for Brandon Johns, Isaiah Livers return, the win over Michigan State, and preview this week's match-ups with Northwestern and Indiana. 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

Reacting to the retirement of Mark Dantonio, we break down how the veteran head coach got to this point, and what the keys to his downfall at Michigan State were. We look at the Spartans’ missed opportunity after making the College Football Playoff and a third Big Ten title in five seasons. We break down whether or not Michigan and Penn State’s return to prominence played a role, and how the last four years might erase the legacy of the first two-thirds of his tenure with the Spartans. We also look forward, discussing the state of the Michigan State gig given its location, division and current state. We break down potential candidates for his replacement, and look at what Michigan State looks like heading into the 2020 season from both a depth chart and a 2021 recruiting standpoint. 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 short, lightning-round format, Shaw and Lorenz break down the key things to know about the Michigan football team’s 2020 recruiting class. We begin by discussing how uneventful not just the February National Signing Day was for Michigan, but really the entire recruiting cycle has been since July, with only two commitments since then. We also break down the Wolverines’ process in scouting and pursuing top targets, and how that has changed in recent years. After that, we zero in on some of the key recruiting battles and top targets that landed in Michigan’s class. We break down the key players to watch from the class in the 2020 season, what to make of the geographic recruitment this cycle and offer a quick peek-ahead to the 2021 cycle. 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 interviews former Michigan great Phil Hubbard about his standout career in Ann Arbor, his time as an Olympian, his transition to NBA in the eighties, his thoughts on this year's team, and more. Plus, Tim and host Sam Webb discuss Zavier Simpson's return from suspension, Brandon John's standout performances versus Nebraska and Rutgers, and preview the upcoming games versus Ohio State and Michigan 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

Continuing with part 2 of our review-preview series, we break down what happened, what’s next and more with the Michigan football team’s defensive line, linebackers, cornerbacks, safeties and special teams units. First, we look at Michigan’s defensive line, and weigh the strengths of the Wolverines’ defensive ends vs. some issues with Michigan’s defensive interior and depth. We also look at what the unit will look like next season with more experience, and why the second- and third-year “project” players are the key to the line making the next step. We then look at linebacker, and dissect what was overall a strong year from an experienced group. We look at why big plays continued to be a problem, and what the position group looks like with three departing starters next season. We next break down Michigan’s cornerbacks and safeties, following our same formula as the other groups. We offer grades, what worked, what didn’t work, decide if the arrow is pointing up, down or even and break down out big key offseason question. We close by doing the same for special teams. 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 interviews New York Knick forward Ignas Brazdeikis about his transition to the NBA, his standout freshman campaign at Michigan last season, his thoughts on this year's team, and more. Plus, Tim and host Sam Webb discuss the offensive struggles in the latest losses to Penn State and Illinois, possible adjustments, and preview the upcoming games versus Nebraska and Rutgers. 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 the first of a two-part series, we break down every offensive position group with a five-point review preview. First, we look at Michigan's quarterbacks, taking a look at the group's 2019 grade, what worked for the group, what didn't work for the group, whether the arrow is pointing up, down or flat at the position heading into 2020 and what our biggest offseason question for the group is. We then do the same for Michigan's running backs, receivers, tight ends and offensive linemen. Along the way, we differ on grades, dissect the legacy of departing players, offer some intel on incoming recruits, break down returning talent and read between the lines on young ascending players who might step into starting roles next season. We also look into the key offseason questions, ranging from developing stars to new positions to how certain players fit in Michigan's system. 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 interviews college basketball analyst Jay Bilas about the beginning of the Juwan Howard era at Michigan, how impactful he believes Howard will be on the recruiting trail, the battle for supremacy in the Big 10, where the league rates nationally, what college basketball will look like in 10 years, and much more. Plus, Tim and host Sam Webb break down Michigan's recent loss to Iowa, the adjustment in defensive strategy, and the upcoming matchups versus Penn State and Illinois. 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

First, we diagnose what Michigan’s panic level should be following its 0-2 week in road games at Minnesota and Iowa. We weigh the explainable setbacks such as how difficult the Wolverines’ schedule has been, the impact of Isaiah Livers’ injury and what probably could have been considered a young roster in transition. We also break down which issues aren’t necessarily as forgivable, such as Michigan’s transition defense, post defense, road shooting woes and even potentially energy according to one player. Our discussion then turns to what’s next, as we look at a winnable five-game stretch for the Wolverines, and how Michigan can capitalize and redefine its season. Finally, we close by looking at Juwan Howard’s recruiting, why he has had success so far, and what to make of the Wolverines’ 2020 recruiting class 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

Tim McCormick interviews Michigan point guard and captain Zavier Simpson about the growth of his game, his evolving leadership style, Juwan Howard, and more. Plus, Tim and host Sam Webb discuss the defensive strategy that has had led to career highs in points for several opponents this year, whether changes to that strategy are forthcoming, Eli Brooks’ struggles, and preview the rematch with Iowa. Hosts Tim McCormick (@TimMcCormick40) and Sam Webb (@SamWebb77) 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

The first, most pertinent issue that we address for Michigan’s to-do list is look at its lone assistant coaching vacancy. We recap our discussion from last week on what direction the Wolverines should go to replace departed safeties coach Chris Partridge. We also break down why the apparent retention of outside linebackers coach Anthony Campanile can be beneficial to Michigan, and how it changes what the Wolverines are looking for in their 10th assistant. Next on our list, we look at potential transfer portal targets, and explain why we both hone in on the defensive line. We discuss one major defensive tackle target, and explore some of the young defensive linemen the Wolverines might want to bring some depth and experience around. We next look at the upcoming quarterback battle between Dylan McCaffrey and Joe Milton. We debate when Michigan should come to a decision, what to watch for in the battle, the significance and what to expect in terms of transfer fallout when an eventual winner is selected. Breaking down some smaller options, we look at defensive adjustments that should be made, how Michigan re-equips its secondary and offensive line, the importance of second-year defensive standouts, players the Wolverines must find more usage for and the opportunity in 2021 recruiting to hit the ground running. 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 more news-focused football podcast, we dissect two recent going-ons with the Michigan football team. First, we break down the Wolverines’ loss of safeties coach and special teams coordinator Chris Partridge. We break down what made Partridge such an impressive recruiter, other things he brought to the table as a position coach and what made it compelling for him to leave to become a defensive coordinator. We discuss what characteristics Michigan should be looking for in Partridge’s replacement, and offer some of our opinion of key candidates or areas that the Wolverines are looking at. Then, we discuss a hotly contested debate on the 247Sports message board this week about how and why Michigan is getting out-recruited by Ohio State and others. In doing so, we look at how the Wolverines’ recruiting approach has changed over the years, what issues Michigan is facing on the recruiting trail and what the Wolverines are doing and can do to close the recruiting gap. 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

Checking in on the No. 19 Michigan basketball team, we look at some of the key topics surrounding the Wolverines’ recent double-overtime win over Purdue. We look at a potential change to the starting lineup, what the pros and cons are about Michigan’s “three-guard” lineup, why it worked against the Boilermakers and how it should be used moving forward. We also take a look at a growing concern of opposing big men racking up points on the Wolverines in the wake of Travion Williams’ 26-point, 20-rebound effort. We discuss the pros and cons of Michigan sending help in the post for Jon Teske, and look at what the Wolverines’ strategy should be heading to Minnesota. We also break down other key issues surrounding the team, including Michigan’s road woes and a daunting schedule ahead. 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 interviews former Michigan and current Cleveland Cavaliers head coach John Beilein about his transition to the NBA, the program he built in Ann Arbor, Juwan Howard, and more. Plus, Tim and host Sam Webb break down Sunday's loss to Michigan State, this week's games versus Purdue and Minnesota, and the addition of Top 100 forward Terrance Williams, the Wolverines current standing with five-star shooting guard Josh Christopher. Hosts: Tim McCormick and Sam Webb 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 interviews former Michigan center Moritz Wagner about the strong start to his NBA career,his memorable run in Ann Arbor, little brother Franz following in his footsteps, and more. Plus, Tim and host Sam Webb preview Sunday's match up with Michigan State, discuss the addition of transfer Brandon Wade, and give their respective versions of the Wolverines' all-decade team. Hosts: Tim McCormick and Sam Webb 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

Ahead of the No. 14 Michigan football team's matchup against No. 13 Alabama in the Vrbo Citrus Bowl, Michigan beat writer Zach Shaw breaks down three things he learned in his time covering the Citrus Bowl, two big questions he still has and offers his one prediction for the game. In terms of things he learned, Shaw points first toward Michigan's seemingly serious approach, why that matters and how it has differed slightly from previous seasons. He also reveals why he feels like the offense is more fired up than he expected, and some of the key comments in that regard. Finally, he breaks down a defense, particularly in the backfield, that feels like it has a lot to prove. In his remaining questions, Shaw offers a glimpse into why he is skeptical of Alabama's motivation level after a few conversations with Crimson Tide reporters. He also discusses the biggest perceived mismatch in the game, pitting Michigan's shorthanded defensive line against Alabama's elite offensive line. Finally, Shaw explains the significance a Michigan upset could have, but why he doesn't think it will ultimately happen. 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 interviews former Michigan forward Duncan Robinson about his breakout season with the Miami Heat, his thoughts on Juwan Howard as a coach based on their time together in Miami, how Howard compares to John Beilein, and more. Plus, Tim and host Sam Webb discuss the role Colin Castleton could play in the team’s success, the commitment of four-star center Hunter Dickinson and how he’ll fit into the mix in the coming years, and whether there is enough room to fit the other prospects that Michigan is trending with into this year’s class. Hosts: Tim McCormick and Sam Webb 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 interviews Wolverine forward Charles Matthews about his career at Michigan after transferring from Kentucky, rehabbing the torn ACL. he suffered during a pre-draft workout for the Boston Celtics, his Chicago connection with Juwan Howard, and more. Plus, Tim and host Sam Webb discuss Michigan's losses to Illinois and Oregon, possible remedies for recent offensive woes, and possible breakout performances by Brandon Johns and Franz Wagner. Hosts: Tim McCormick and Sam Webb 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 our first recruiting podcast in some time, we break down Michigan's 2020 recruiting class on the even of National Signing Day. We open with some broad thoughts on the class — currently ranked No. 11 in the 247Sports Composite — and how effective Michigan was. We debate the pros and cons of tidying up most of the class early on in the cycle, with only one commitment coming after July, and why recruiting and Signing Day might be perceived as more "boring" than a few years ago. We then get a little more specific with the class. We look at which players might play the soonest, which players are the biggest sleepers in the class and which player was the biggest recruiting win. We also look at which position groups' needs were filled the most, which assistant coaches deserve the most credit for their efforts on the trail and where Michigan could have used another key piece or two. 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 interview Michigan assistant Phil Martelli about his biggest adjustment as an assistant after decades as a head coach, Juwan Howard's impact on the recruiting trail, and more. McCormick and Webb also break down Michigan's victory over Iowa, look ahead to Illinois, and finish with a full Big 10 preview. Hosts: Tim McCormick and Sam Webb 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 interviews Wolverine forward Isaiah Livers about the evolution of his game in Ann Arbor, how Juwan Howard has impacted his development, and more. Plus, Tim and host Sam Webb discuss Michigan's breakout performance in the Battle 4 Atlantis, why Louisville's pack line defense was so disruptive and the ways attack it, early returns on Franz Wagner, and a preview of Friday's Big Ten opener versus Iowa. Hosts: Tim McCormick and Sam Webb 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 the wake of the Michigan football team's blowout loss to No. 1 Ohio State, we break down what the loss mean, key takeaways and how the gap between the two programs looks in the future. We open by looking at how far back the talent and success differential between the two programs goes, exploring the decade before Jim Harbaugh was hired for both the Wolverines (who went 73-53) and the Buckeyes (who went 110-21), and what went wrong for Michigan. We also evaluate how Harbaugh has helped the Wolverines narrow the gap, and how they haven't in many ways. We also look at the game specifically, and which mistakes were the most troubling moving forward for Michigan. We dissent on how the Wolverines should handle their defense heading into the offseason, and also look at where the biggest talent gaps in the next couple years will be. 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, on the eve of "The Game," we break down over-unders and offer our predictions for the matchup. First, we look at how Michigan's offense could fare against the Buckeyes' top-ranked defense. We discuss what a fair expectation is for Shea Patterson and the Wolverines' passing game against Ohio State's secondary and which players might emerge in that matchup. Then, we look at Michigan's potential in the run game, underclassmen getting touches and how Michigan goes about trying to stop Chase Young. We then switch to the defensive side of the ball, looking at Michigan's ability to get sacks adn force turnovers, the Wolverines' ability to slow down JK Dobbins and Justin Fields, Ohio State's big-play potential and more. Finally, we close with our overall prediction for the game. 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