Michigan Football: Top 5 storylines to follow this spring

5. Adjusting to coaching changes

Shortly after the offseason began, Michigan experienced a mini-exodus of coaches from the coaching staff. According to the Detroit Free Press, in-conference rival Ohio State nabbed both the Wolverines’ defensive line coach (Greg Mattison) and linebackers coach (Al Washington).

However, perhaps the most influential change will be the addition of the newly-minted offensive coordinator, a position that will be filled by Josh Gattis.

Gattis has previously coached at a Michigan school –– at Western Michigan as a wide receivers coach in 2011.

His most recent gig, however, was with Alabama as a co-offensive coordinator and wide receivers coach. According to the initial reports, it is expected that Gattis will handle the offensive play calling –– replacing former passing coordinator Pep Hamilton’s role throughout the last two seasons.

Several key members of the coaching staff won’t change, however. One such person is Don Brown, the team’s defensive coordinator, who guided possibly the most formidable defenses in the nation last season.

Undoubtedly, Harbaugh is still the figurehead of the Michigan program. As a former Wolverine himself combined with the fact that his contract won’t expire for another two seasons, it is likely he will be a mainstay on staff.

Of course, this all depends on how success is judged. For instance,  are 38 wins throughout the course of four seasons enough to merit a longer deal? Or is his success contingent on Michigan defeating Ohio State –– a feat that the Harbaugh has yet to accomplish as a coach.

As of this moment, there are no extensive talks of a contract extension but should Michigan have another successful season, Harbaugh could further secure his job status in the near future.