NCAA College Football: 2025 Preview – Michigan Wolverines

What’s New & Key Changes

New Leadership, Same Foundation
J.J. McCarthy is now in the NFL, and head coach Sherrone Moore officially takes the reins. A highly rated recruiting class and a revamped coaching staff, including a new offensive coordinator, signal a transition from past laurels to a refreshed vision.

Roster Shifts
Michigan lost key offensive contributors, but their defense remains intact. Top defenders like Kris Jenkins Jr. and Mason Graham return to anchor a unit that finished in the top tier nationally in sacks and tackles for loss.

Quarterback Transition
The program brings in a high-profile transfer to win the starting job, offering experience to replace McCarthy’s production. While the young QB must stabilize the offense, the rush game provides reliable support.

Offensive Evolution
Under new offensive coordination, Michigan aims to boost tempo and versatility, leaning into a run-pass balance that opens space for playmakers on swing and jet motion schemes.

Key Returners & Unit Strengths

• Defense Reigns Supreme: Michigan’s defensive line and linebacker corps remain a top-10 national unit. With Jenkins Jr., Graham, and a talented supporting cast, they set the tone for Big Ten physicality.
• Run Game Reliability: Running back Donovan Edwards leads a ground-heavy offense. His patience and burst make Michigan capable of controlling time of possession, even when the QB plays conservatively.
• Linebackers and Secondary: Abdul Carter and Rod Moore return as leaders in a secondary that’s capable of creating turnovers and defending the deep ball. This experience means fewer mental errors in tight spots.
• Offensive Line Veterans: With most starters back along the OL, Michigan should avoid the kind of breakdowns that plagued teams under coordinating transitions. Improved pass protection is key to any offensive upgrade.

2025 Season Preview

Michigan starts the year at home before facing top competition on the road and at neutral sites, including rivalry games against Ohio State and an early clash against perennial power. Their toughest challenges come midseason, with back-to-back high-stakes matchups.

If the offense performs at an improved tempo thanks to the new system — and the defense remains elite — Michigan projects as a national title contender again. Otherwise, they risk becoming a predictable, grind-it-out team that struggles in shootout scenarios.

Betting Angle – Bet105 Insights

Michigan’s reputation and recent success mean they’re installed as betting favorites from early on. But several market angles could tilt in favor of informed bettors.

Win Total Futures (Projected near 11.5 or 12)
If Michigan opens above 11.5 wins, the under might be a play. Transition at quarterback and early-season road tests create upside risk, not guaranteed wins.

Spread Plays
Michigan has shown inconsistency when favored by more than 10 points. Fade those big spreads until the offense has proven it can consistently score above 35.

Live Betting and Second-Half Value
Expect Michigan to adjust and dominate in the latter quarters. If games remain tight early, they’re strong candidates for second-half comebacks or adjustments.

Underdog Spot Value
On the road at top-tier opponents, especially in hostile Big Ten venues, Michigan is often underrated in spread markets. Keep an eye out for opportunities to back them as a small or middle-sized underdog.

Perennial contenders often get priced accurately, but not always fairly. If the Wolverines can blend defensive identity with offensive evolution, they’ll challenge again. And for savvy bettors tracking metrics over reputation, Michigan in 2025 might offer both competitive value and season-long edge on bet105.

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