Ann Arbor — Michigan defensive tackle Mazi Smith might be better known these days as a “freak," a description that absolutely suits him and is backed up by weight room and conditioning numbers. The 21-year-old senior also has been, to his teammates, noticeably more vocal as a leader heading into this upcoming season, a pivot from Smith’s quiet, lead-by-example demeanor.
Smith joked during Big Ten media days last month that a lot has changed since he starred at East Kentwood High near Grand Rapids. He slimmed down, added muscle, improved his football knowledge and play, and decided to ditch the goggles he wore when he played in high school.