4 burning questions for College Football Playoff teams heading into 2022

The Wolverines are at an inflection point

1. Will Jim Harbaugh return next season?

This question does not have a simple answer. Harbaugh has always been a tough coach to read. He did squash NFL rumors a couple of years ago. The silence from the Harbaugh camp has been off-putting, if nothing else.

There are several openings, including the Chicago Bears, where he played much of his NFL career. If Harbaugh does leave, Michigan has options. The Wolverines could promote offensive coordinator Josh Gattis and running backs coach Mike Hart.

Former Baylor head coach and current Carolina Panthers coach Matt Rhule has expressed interest if Harbaugh leaves.

There is no better time for the former NFL quarterback and coach to go if he wants. Harbaugh is the hottest name from the college ranks and one of the few who has succeeded at both levels.

2. JJ McCarthy or Cade McNamara?

If the National Semifinal showed us anything, Michigan needs playmakers. McNamara is a solid, accurate quarterback. With McNamara, however, you need dynamic playmakers around him. McCarthy is a plus in the running game, though not as refined a passer as Cade.

McNamara proved that he could get you to the playoff. If Michigan wants to win, they might have to open this up for competition in the spring and see where the chips fall.

3. What does Michigan do with this success?

Michigan football is at an inflection point. They’ve made the playoffs and defeated Ohio State for the first time in the Harbaugh era. Are they satisfied with having one season like this, or are they working on a plan to return to the playoff with an eye on a national title?

If the answer is yes, will they compete with Ohio State in recruiting? They won’t be back for a while if they don’t improve their recruiting. The Buckeyes were vulnerable and young this season; that will not happen often.