The Michigan Wolverines are finishing up fall camp ahead of their season opener in Dallas on Sept. 2 against Florida, and as such, are putting the finishing touches on their depth chart and rotation. Position battles are reaching their peak and underclassmen are securing playing time with the Wolverines having to replace 17 starters from last year's team.
After talking with several of our insiders and gathering information from other sources, here's all the latest on where things stand:
Khaleke Hudson to fill Jabrill Peppers' role on defense
Hudson has firmly cemented himself as the starter in the linebacker/safety hybrid "viper" position for Michigan by being one of the true standouts in camp. He has been absolutely superb in coverage against tight ends - but he makes his mark against the run.
“He’s a guy that just loves contact,” linebackers/special teams coach Chris Partridge said earlier in camp. “I think people feed off of that too. He’s becoming very well-rounded as a player, so he’s going to be enjoyable to watch.”
Hudson is not going to be as good as Peppers, who was the most talented player on Michigan's roster last year, but no one around the program has expressed concern that the play from the position will drop significantly. That's the biggest testament to how well Hudson has played in camp.
RELATED: Projecting Michigan's depth chart
Devin Bush Jr. has the makings of a star
Bush is another player that has really stepped up and secured a starting linebacker spot next to veteran Mike McCray and Hudson. The sophomore has proven to be the best pass rusher of the group and is at his best when attacking downhill.
So far, no blocker has proven they can consistently stay in front of him at camp. Bush has showcased a wide array of moves that will make him a major factor in definite passing situations.
While rushing the passer is where Bush will make his mark this year, that's not to say it's all he does well. He has been solid in coverage and has been able to cover backs out of the backfield thanks to his athleticism. Expect him to be one of the best linebackers in the Big Ten this year.
Michigan Fans - Download Chat Sports on iPhone today for breaking news, rumors, scores and more - Chat Sports App!
Starters set at corner, but more players expected to see playing time
Last week, we released our projected depth chart for Michigan with Lavert Hill and David Long serving as the starting cornerbacks. Both have been running with the first team throughout camp and appear to be locks to start the Michigan game. That said, there are some younger players who are also expected to play significant playing time.
Freshman Ambry Thomas has performed really well throughout camp and will see a lot of time on the field - that's not a surprise - but the coaching staff has also been extremely impressed with the coverage skills of Jaylen Kelly-Powell and Brad Hawkins.
Hawkins, a physical, 6-2, 200-pound corner, has been getting reps on the outside and could potentially take over a starting role down the line. The coaching staff loves the idea of having his size on the field if he proves he can consistently defend receivers one-on-one. Kelly-Powell's versatility and ability to play both cornerback and safety should get him on the field when Michigan puts multiple defensive backs on the field in passing situations.
Follow our Michigan Wolverines team page for all the latest Michigan football news or download the Chat Sports App!
Back to the Michigan Wolverines Newsfeed