Michigan Football: Jim Harbaugh once again on hot seat

New defensive staff hopes to turn around Wolverines defense

Michigan has had some very good defenses under former coordinator Don Brown, but it was starting to show that teams had generally figured out his aggressive scheme. Jim Harbaugh went the NFL route to find his new defensive coordinator in Baltimore Ravens linebackers coach Mike Macdonald and Michigan is hoping that can cure whatever was ailing them last season.

The defensive line has some talent and experience returning. Michigan is going to get a big boost from potential first-round pick Aidan Hutchinson returning and he will be Michigan’s top pass rusher this season. Christopher Hinton and Donavan Jeter provide strength up front and look our for Mazi Smith to provide some depth and get on the field this season.

At linebacker, Taylor Upshaw has some serious upside as a pass rusher and could be in for a big season.

Josh Ross and Michael Barrett are two seniors that are going to be counted on to help turn around this defense after both suffered some down seasons in 2020. David Ojabo is another guy that should get plenty of work this season.

In the secondary, safety Daxton Hill is looking to have a big season and I think that he is a guy that could be an All-Big Ten type of player.

Brad Hawkins is also back at safety and he is looking to bounce back after a rough season a year ago. Look for Vincent Gray and Gemon Green to man the cornerback spots.