5 preseason questions for Michigan Wolverines as Sherrone Moore looks to defend Natty
The Michigan Wolverines won the national title last season, marking their first title since 1997. They faced plenty of turnover after the season as head coach Jim Harbaugh and defensive coordinator Jesse Minter left for the NFL. They also had 13 players selected in the 2024 NFL Draft, the most of any program.
Additionally, there is an ongoing investigation into the program for allegedly stealing opponent's signs. Take a look at five questions for the Wolverines ahead of Sherrone Moore's first year leading the program.
5 preseason questions for Michigan Wolverines
#1: Can they repeat as national champions?
The biggest question surrounding the Michigan Wolverines is whether or not they can repeat as national champions despite facing plenty of departures. The Wolverines ranked eighth in the preseason Coaches Poll and will face a tough schedule that includes matchups with three of the top-four ranked teams in the nation - the Ohio State Buckeyes, Oregon Ducks and Texas Longhorns.
#2: Will the program face punishment for sign-stealing scandal?
The ongoing investigation into the Michigan Wolverines could have big ramifications. While it is unclear what punishment they could face, there is the potential that the NCAA's ruling completely alters their season. The potential for a postseason ban exists, however, it is uncertain if that will be the route the NCAA goes.
#3: Will Sherrone Moore face punishment?
Sherrone Moore is one of seven members of the 2023 Michigan Wolverines coaching staff accused of violating NCAA rules. The NCAA's notice of allegations draft suggested that the first-year head coach could face a show-cause penalty and a suspension after allegedly deleting 52 texts with former staff Connor Stalions on the same day the latter's role in the sign-stealing scandal was exposed. Moore is considered a repeat offender.
#4: How will they replace J.J. McCarthy?
J.J. McCarthy played well throughout his time at Michigan and finished tenth in Heisman Trophy voting last season. He was the first of 13 Wolverines drafted in the 2024 NFL Draft as the Minnesota Vikings selected him tenth overall. Michigan will need to replace him and is holding a quarterback battle between Alex Orji, Jack Tuttle and Davis Warren.
#5: Can the defense remain the top-ranked unit in the nation?
The Michigan Wolverines had the top-ranked defense in the nation in 2023, allowing 10.4 points per game and 247.0 yards per game, both of which led the nation. After losing several key members of the defense, as well as defensive coordinator Jesse Minter, it remains to be seen if they can remain dominant on the less flashy side of the ball.