Michigan Football: Can Wolverines finally win Big Ten in 2020?

ANN ARBOR, MICHIGAN - NOVEMBER 30: The Michigan Wolverines football team takes the field before a college football game against the Ohio State Buckeyes at Michigan Stadium on November 30, 2019 in Ann Arbor, MI. (Photo by Aaron J. Thornton/Getty Images)
ANN ARBOR, MICHIGAN - NOVEMBER 30: The Michigan Wolverines football team takes the field before a college football game against the Ohio State Buckeyes at Michigan Stadium on November 30, 2019 in Ann Arbor, MI. (Photo by Aaron J. Thornton/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Brett Carlsen/Getty Images)
(Photo by Brett Carlsen/Getty Images) /

The offense will need to retool

Shea Patterson is no longer the starting quarterback in Ann Arbor. With Dylan McCaffrey opting out and seeking a transfer, the offense will rest on the shoulders of Joe Milton.

Milton, a former four-star prospect, has been in the Michigan system for two years but only has 12 career pass attempts. He has a cannon for an arm and can be mobile, but has limited experience to show what he can do in Josh Gattis’ offense.

The backfield is set with returning experience though. Zach Charbonnet had a great freshman season a year ago, with 726 yards and 11 scores. Hassan Haskins is another weapon, recording 622 yards and four touchdowns a season ago.

The running backs will need to run behind a retooled offense line. The Wolverines only return one starter, right tackle Jalen Mayfield. There is talent in the room though, including Andrew Stueber who missed all of last season due to injury.

The receivers also will have a different look. Donovan Peoples-Jones is in the NFL and Nico Collins opted out, although there is some speculation Collins may opt back in late. Ronnie Bell however is back and will be the unquestionable top receiver. There is young talent behind Bell including four star recruit AJ Henning who could be up for a big role early.