Get a comprehensive look at the 2017 michigan football depth chart. This analysis covers the offense, defense, and special teams, plus key players to watch.
The Michigan Wolverines have always been one of the most respected teams in college football. In 2017, they were expected to continue their legacy with another impressive season. One of the key components of their success was their depth chart. The 2017 Michigan football depth chart was a well-balanced team with plenty of talent across all positions. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the depth chart and analyze each position to see what made the Wolverines so successful.
The 2017 Michigan football team was one of the most talented teams in the country. They had a well-rounded roster with plenty of star players on both offense and defense. The team finished the season with an 8-5 record, which was considered a bit of a disappointment given their high expectations. However, their depth chart was still an impressive sight to behold.
The Wolverines were led by their quarterback, Wilton Speight. Speight was a talented passer who had a strong arm and good accuracy. He had plenty of weapons at his disposal, including running back Chris Evans and wide receivers Donovan Peoples-Jones and Tarik Black. The offensive line was also a strength for the Wolverines, with plenty of size and athleticism to protect Speight and open up holes for the running backs.
On defense, the Wolverines were just as impressive. Their defensive line was one of the best in the country, led by future NFL stars Rashan Gary and Maurice Hurst. The linebacking corps was also talented, with players like Devin Bush Jr. and Mike McCray making plays all over the field. The secondary was anchored by cornerback Lavert Hill, who was one of the best cover corners in the country.
Overall, the 2017 Michigan football team was a well-balanced squad with plenty of talent at every position. While they didn’t live up to their high expectations, their depth chart was still one of the best in the country.
Offense Depth Chart
Looking at the 2017 Michigan football depth chart, it’s clear that the offense was a strength for the Wolverines. Wilton Speight was the starting quarterback, and he had a talented group of skill players around him. Chris Evans was the team’s leading rusher, with 685 yards and six touchdowns on the season. He was complemented by Karan Higdon, who had 994 yards and 11 touchdowns on the year.
The wide receiver group was led by Donovan Peoples-Jones and Tarik Black. Peoples-Jones was a five-star recruit and one of the most highly-touted prospects in the country. He had a solid freshman season, catching 22 passes for 277 yards and one touchdown. Black was another talented freshman, but his season was cut short due to injury. He still managed to catch 11 passes for 149 yards and a touchdown in just three games.
The offensive line was a strength for the Wolverines, with plenty of size and athleticism. Mason Cole was the team’s starting left tackle, and he was one of the best in the country. He was joined by Ben Bredeson, Michael Onwenu, Cesar Ruiz, and Juwann Bushell-Beatty. This group did a good job of protecting Speight and opening up holes for the running backs.
Key Players on Offense:
- Wilton Speight (QB)
- Chris Evans (RB)
- Donovan Peoples-Jones (WR)
- Tarik Black (WR)
- Mason Cole (LT)
Defense Depth Chart
While the offense was certainly impressive, the 2017 Michigan football depth chart was anchored by its defense. The defensive line was one of the best in the country, with future NFL stars Rashan Gary and Maurice Hurst leading the way. Gary was a five-star recruit and one of the most highly-touted prospects in the country. He had a solid sophomore season, recording 66 tackles, 11.5 tackles for loss, and 5.5 sacks. Hurst was a dominant force in the middle of the line, recording 59 tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss, and five sacks.
The linebacking corps was also talented, with Devin Bush Jr. and Mike McCray leading the way. Bush Jr. was a tackling machine, recording 100 tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss, and five sacks on the season. McCray was a senior leader who provided stability and leadership on the field.
The secondary was anchored by cornerback Lavert Hill, who was one of the best in the country. He had two interceptions and 17 passes defended on the season. Safety Tyree Kinnel was also a key contributor, recording 77 tackles and two interceptions.
Key Players on Defense:
- Rashan Gary (DE)
- Maurice Hurst (DT)
- Devin Bush Jr. (LB)
- Mike McCray (LB)
- Lavert Hill (CB)