The Michigan Insider

On the latest episode of Steady Droppin Dimes, the crew discusses the impact of NIL on National Signing Day. They also tackle the question of which of the new college football hires has the best odds of success, and which will crash and burn. Lastly, they revisit the question of which is the best team in college basketball.

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In this week's episode, Tim McCormick and Sam Webb weigh in on Michigan's historic run in the 2025 Players Era Festival and discus whether it marks the team's arrival as an unstoppable force. Tim remains skeptical about UM truly being as dominant as it looked in Vegas, but was impressed by the team's practices since returning home and competitive spirit. They highlight the team's defensive prowess, particularly with three bigs on the floor, and the potential of players like Yaxel Lendeborg and Aday Mara. Concerns include handling success and turnovers, but the chemistry and camaraderie among players is identified as...

On this week's edition of The Michigan Recruiting Insider, Sam Webb, Steve Lorenz, and Brice Marich recap Michigan's 2026 recruiting class. They discuss the delay in Savion Hiter's signing. The crew explains how contract revisions caused chaos on signing day and slowed the overall process of getting the class signed. Steve praises the offensive line class of Marky Walbridge, Malakai Lee, and Bear McWhorter. The entire crew discusses the talent and possible early impact of the class's top overall recruit, five-star edge Carter Meadows. Sam explains the staff's successful effort to protect wideout Travis Johnson's commitment. He highlights the complementary...

In this week's episode, Al Borges and Sam Webb discussed Michigan's offensive performance in its 27-9 loss to Ohio State. They highlighted the team's reliance on the run game early, which led to initial success with runs of 36, 21, and 22 yards. However, the offense struggled to maintain balance, with only one first-down pass in the first half. Borges noted the need for more quarterback-dependent plays and better third-down execution. He graded the offensive line, tight ends, running backs, quarterback, and wide receivers, assigning grades ranging from D to C+. He emphasized the importance of developing the quarterback and offensive line...

In this week's episode, Vance Bedford and Sam Webb discussed Michigan's defensive performance in its 27-9 loss to Ohio State. Bedford criticizes the defense for failing to stop vertical routes, poor alignment, and ineffective blitzing. He also criticizes the offense for putting excessive pressure on the defense, highlighting the importance of scoring touchdowns instead of field goals, noting that field goals gave Ohio State a chance to come back. Bedford then shifts focus back to the defense, emphasizing the need for better fundamentals, communication, and technique in the secondary and linebacker positions moving forward. He suggests that the defense...

In this episode, Zach Shaw and Alejandro Zuniga break down the Michigan football team's 27-9 loss to No. 1 Ohio State. 

They open with a look at Michigan's offense, which mustered just 163 total yards and three field goals in the game. They look at the Wolverines' passing game, why they didn't throw the ball more and what needs to change for Michigan to trust is passing game to win marquee matchups. They also look at the Wolverines' ground game, struggles on the offensive line and some concerning trends about Michigan's offense in ranked matchups under Sherrone Moore.

In...

In this episode, Zach Shaw and Alejandro Zuniga preview the No. 15 Michigan football team's home bout with No. 1 Ohio State, and the keys for the Wolverines in the contest. 

They open with a look at Michigan offense, and what it must show against the Buckeyes to pull off the upset. They discuss the Wolverines' run game, components of that phase that must stand out against Ohio State, the value of a mobile quarterback and a strong second half, the strengths of Ohio State's run defense and more. They also look at Michigan's ascending passing offense, and what it...

On this week’s episode of Steady Droppin Dimes, Sam Webb, Tyrone Wheatley, and Daniel Horton are joined by former Auburn national championship-winning coach Gene Chizik and former Michigan/Auburn offensive coordinator Al Borges. They discuss what it will take for Michigan to win "The Game." Chizik and Borges both know Michigan offensive coordinator Chip Lindsey well and will offer insight into possible strategies. Another topic will be Chizik's thoughts on Bryce Underwood and how he compares to his former star signal caller, Cam Newton. The conversation then shifts to basketball. After two nationally televised thrashings of San Diego St...

In this week's episode, Al Borges and Sam Webb discussed Michigan's offensive performance in its 45-20 victory over Maryland, highlighting Bryce Underwood's best performance of the year. And previewing Michigan's annual battle with arch-rival, Ohio State. Will the Wolverines notch their fifth consecutive victory in "The Game." Borges dissects Matt Patricia's defense and gives his thoughts on UM's likely attack plan.

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In this week's episode, Vance Bedford and Sam Webb discussed Michigan's offensive performance in its 45-20 victory over Maryland, pointing out the defensive lapses in the secondary that must be tightened up ahead the season finale. Speaking of which, Vance and Sam preview Michigan's annual battle with arch-rival, Ohio State. Will the Wolverines notch their fifth consecutive victory in "The Game?" Vance dissects Ryan Day's offense and gives his thoughts on UM's likely attack plan.

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In this episode, Zach Shaw and Steve Lorenz reunite to break down the Michigan men's basketball team's dominant performance in the Players Era Festival in Las Vegas.

They look at the sheer dominance of the Wolverines, as they knocked off San Diego State, No. 21 Auburn and No. 12 Gonzaga by a combined 110 points. They try to add context to Michigan's level of play, and assess the legitimacy to the Wolverines' claim as the nation's best team.

Along the way, they also look at how Michigan got to be as good as it has looked, players that ha...

The Game is here. Michigan will host Ohio State this weekend at the Big House with a chance to make it five straight over the Buckeyes — and a potential College Football Playoff berth and Big Ten Championship Game spot are on the line, too.

Behind Enemy Lines welcomes Patrick Murphy of 247Sports' Bucknuts to break down OSU. Is Julian Sayin as talented as the numbers suggest? What's the latest on Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate? And what has made Matt Patricia's first season as DC so successful?

We'll answer all that and more as Michigan pr...

Michigan headman Dusty May continues to tinker with his lineup early in the season. He changed his starting lineup in Wednesday night's victory, inserting Will Tschetter and bringing Aday Mara off the bench. In this week's episode, Tim McCormick and Sam Webb weigh in on what they think the Wolverines best starting five will be in the long run.

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The Michigan Insider's Sam Webb sits down for a 1-on-1 conversation with Michigan AD Warde Manuel about Michigan's dissent on the Big 10's pursuit of a $2.4 billion deal with UC Investments, which manages the pension fund for the University of California (UC) system. He explained, emphasizing Michigan's unique position, his advocacy for advantageous terms, and the need for fair governance as part of the plan. Manuel assured fans that Michigan's interests are paramount and reiterated the university's commitment to long-term success and integrity. Manuel also addressed Michigan's decision to drop its appeal of the NCAA's sign-stealing penalty, criticizing the...

In this week’s episode of Steady Droppin Dimes, Sam Webb, Tyrone Wheatley, and Daniel Horton examine Michigan's opposition to the Big 10's proposed private equity deal. The group looking to partner with the conference has decided to press pause on the process based on Michigan's dissent, but should the deal be dead and buried. Plus a look at Bryce Underwood's progression and more.

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In this episode, Zach Shaw and Alejandro Zuniga break down the Michigan football team's matchup at Maryland, what the Wolverines need to show against the Terrapins and what Michigan must do to prepare itself for next week's game against Ohio State.

They begin with a look at the offense. The discuss the Wolverines' balancing act at running back as injuries add up, but a prime opportunity for depth in the ground game to show itself against a struggling Maryland run defense. They also dissect what changes need to be made in the passing game, both for this we...

Michigan football has one more hurdle to clear before Ohio State: A 4-6 Maryland team that hasn't won since September but has enough offensive weapons and forces enough takeaways that they cannot be overlooked.

Behind Enemy Lines chats with Harrison Rich, who covers Maryland for 247Sports' Inside Maryland Sports, to preview the Terps and what the Wolverines should expect in College Park this weekend.

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In this week's episode, Al Borges and Sam Webb discussed Michigan's offensive performance in its 24-22 victory over Northwestern, highlighting Bryce Underwood's rollercoaster-like performance. They detailed Underwood's improved dropback passing to start the game, and both the prevalence and efficacy of RPOs. The conversation then turned to the costly turnovers and their causes . There was ample discussion of Underwood's reaction to mistakes and his inability to shake them off during a portion of the game. They then highlighted the tremendous turn by freshman wideout Andrew Marsh and his game-saving catch. Borges praised Chip Lindsey's game plan and in-game adjustments...

In this week's episode, Vance Bedford and Sam Webb discussed Michigan's defensive performance in their 24-22 win over Northwestern, highlighting the team's resilience despite losing the turnover battle 5-0. Bedford praised Wink Martindale's defensive strategy, particularly the pressure applied, but also noted problems with 50/50 balls and RPOs. Shifting to the defensive line, Bedford criticized deficiencies in maintaining gap responsibility during stunts. He stressed the need for stronger execution in the secondary, especially in man-to-man coverage. Finally, Bedford emphasized that the team must first focus on Maryland before turning their attention to Ohio State.

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In this episode, Zach Shaw and Alejandro Zuniga break down the Michigan football team's 24-22 win over Northwestern at Wrigley Field, and both the good and bad the Wolverines showed in the win.

They open the episode with a look at the offense. They discuss Michigan's down-to-down success — including 496 yards of offense, 25 first downs and nine drives into Northwestern territory — but also the turnovers, missed field goals and other hiccups that made the game so close. They discuss the passing game's progress, the running back injury situation and Andrew Marsh's exceptional game.

In the second half o...

In this episode, Zach Shaw and Alejandro Zuniga break down the Michigan football team's matchup at Northwestern, what the Wolverines need to show after a second bye week and how they expect the game to go. 

They begin with a look at the offense, which will be aiming to show a more efficient passing attack than in its previous two games. They discuss some specific facets in the passing game they will be looking to see improvement out of, and players they want to see step up. They also discuss the importance of Michigan testing out its r...

In this week's episode, Al Borges and Sam Webb previewed Michigan's upcoming game versus Northwestern. They highlight the importance of Bryce Underwood's improvement coming off the bye. Borges shares a potential game plan that includes quick-rhythm throws and RPOs. He also details a menu of run plays that have been successful against Northwestern's stout defense. Borges notes the trouble the Wildcats' defense could pose with their pass rush and varied coverages. The discussion then turned to the effectiveness of under-center versus shotgun formations for play-action. Borges predicted a close win for Michigan, with a score of 30-27.

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In this week's episode, Vance Bedford and Sam Webb previewed Michigan's upcoming game versus Northwestern. They discussed Michigan's defensive preparations for the matchup, emphasizing Vance's concerns about the Wildcats' physical running game and West Coast offensive concepts. He highlighted Northwestern's ability to exploit defensive gaps and the importance of proper alignment and assignment for defensive linemen, particularly against Northwestern's 12 personnel. Vance predicted Michigan would need to score at least 28 points to win. The episode closed with his thoughts on the top teams in the Big Ten, especially Ohio State, providing broader context for the upcoming matchup.

Michigan football has exited its second bye week and sets its sights on the Northwestern Wildcats this weekend at Wrigley Field.

Gavin Dorsey, publisher and writer for Northwestern Roundtable, joins Behind Enemy Lines to preview the 'Cats. One win away from bowl eligibility, Northwestern has an improved offense and a typically stout defense. This episode breaks down the keys factors and key players as Michigan meets the Wildcats in The Friendly Confines.

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In this week's episode, Sam Webb and former Wolverine Tim McCormick discuss Michigan basketball's strong start, spotlighting its 121-78 win over Oakland. Tim relays Greg Kampe's praise for Michigan's talent, size, and adaptability. They zero in on the team's passing skills, especially with point guard Elliot Cadeau and center Aday Mara, and mention Trey McKenney’s positive minutes at backup point guard versus Oakland. The conversation moves to the team's expected improvements in physicality and rebounding, with Tim noting practice routines like weighted big man drills and no-foul scrimmages. They wrap with previews of games against Wake Forest and TC...

In this week’s episode of Steady Droppin Dimes, Sam Webb, Tyrone Wheatley, and Daniel Horton examine Bryce Underwood’s progress nine games into his freshman season, addressing concerns regarding Michigan’s passing offense following two subpar performances and increasing fan dissatisfaction with offensive output. The team further explores a significant NIL issue: the extent to which Name, Image, and Likeness deals impact playing rotations within collegiate athletics. The discussion then turns to college basketball, considering whether Michigan can be regarded as a national championship contender. Lastly, in the wake of the NFL trade deadline, the panel assesses the curren...

In this week's episode Al Borges and Sam Webb discussed Michigan's offensive performance in its 21-16 victory over Purdue. Borges highlighted five missed throws that could have been significant plays, attributing some to Bryce Underwood's learning curve. He praised Jordan Marshall's performance, noting his 12 first downs and three touchdowns. Shifting back to Underwood, Borges emphasized the importance of reps and confidence-building drills. He also mentioned the impact of turnovers and the need for more quick rhythm throws. The conversation included insights on Underwood's mechanics, the influence of game conditions, and the potential benefits of the bye week for improvement.<...

In this week's episode, Vance Bedford and Sam Webb discussed Michigan's defensive showing in its 21-16 win over Purdue. While they praised key defensive stands, they also noted repeated mistakes from earlier in the season. Bedford criticized the Wolverines for playing down to Purdue's level, especially calling out the defensive line for being out of position and causing poor run defense. However, he highlighted Wink Martindale's "sound" strategy to protect young, injury-replacement linebackers, and also praised captain Ernest Hausmann. Wrapping up the segment, Bedford concluded with a call for fundamental improvement, particularly in pass defense, during the bye week.<...

In this episode, Zach Shaw and Alejandro Zuniga discuss the good and bad for the Michigan football team coming out of its uneven 21-16 win over Purdue.

They open with a look at the offensive side of the ball, discussing Justice Haynes' surgery, Jordan Marshall's star emergence, the multi-faceted issues plaguing Michigan's passing offense, and the top of the Wolverines' offensive bye week to-do list.

In the second half of the episode, they look at Michigan's defense and special teams in the win. They discuss some minor struggle points in coverage and the pass-rush, some...

The new season of Steady Droppin Dimes is finally here. Sam Webb and former Michigan point guard Daniel Horton are back, and with a new co-host, former Michigan great, NFL 1st round pick, 10=year pro, and current Wayne State head football coach Tyrone Wheatley!! The Michigan legend, shares his journey from high school to Ann Arbor, to the NFL and coaching. He recounts his unique hiring by Jim Harbaugh at Michigan. The discussion also covers the impact of NIL deals on college sports, the challenges of balancing donor expectations with winning, and the potential for corruption in sports betting...

In this week's episode, Sam Webb and Former Wolverine Tim McCormick continue their preview of the 2025/26 Michigan basketball season in another LIVE edition of The Michigan Basketball Insider.  They express concerns about turnovers, noting that the team had 20 in their exhibition game against Cincinnati and 22 against St. John's. Tim highlighted the absence of a reliable backup to Elliot Cadeau, and the need improved ball security for the team whole. They discussed the possible expanded role for LJ Cason and the questions about his game entering year two. The conversation the conversation then turned to expectations for Aday Mara, Will Tsc...

In this episode, Zach Shaw and Alejandro Zuniga preview the Michigan football team's home matchup against Purdue. They look at keys for the Wolverines on both sides of the ball, factors to watch and make predictions for the game. 

They open with a look at Michigan's offense, facing a slumping Boilermakers' defense. They challenge the Wolverines to alter their passing game, and give the young pass game meaningful reps and opportunities to grow. They also look at Purdue's weak points on defense, including tackling, big plays and coverage. They close the first half with offensive prop bets.

The Purdue Boilermakers visit Michigan Stadium in search of their first Big Ten win of the season. In this episode of Behind Enemy Lines, you'll learn everything you need to know about the Boilermakers before Saturday night's game.

Under new head coach Barry Odom, Purdue is 2-6 overall and 0-5 in the Big Ten. There's no go-go offense like Odom ran at UNLV, so what should the Wolverines expect from the two QBs (Ryan Browne and Malachi Singleton), and who are the other names to know? Defensively, the Boilermakers have allowed more plays of 40-plus yards than...

In this week's episode Al Borges and Sam Webb discussed Michigan's offensive performance in its 31-20 victory over Michigan State. They highlighted impressive schematic adjustments in the run game, and detailed the struggles in the passing game. Borges attributed five failed plays to effective MSU coverage, while identifying various other factors contributing to Michigan’s other passing difficulties. He noted that only one RPO was thrown out of 16 called and pointed out the inability to turn protection to account for nickel blitzes. That focused discussion on approaches that will foster comfort in the pocket for in freshman quarterback Bryce Un...

In this week's episode, Vance Bedford and Sam Webb discussed Michigan's defensive performance in its 31-20 victory over Michigan State, and previewed the upcoming game against Purdue. Bedford praised the defensive line, giving defensive ends an A- and defensive tackles a B-. He also highlighted Jimmy Rolder's standout game and Jyaire Hill's strong performance at corner. He the warned the secondary about unexploited holes and missed assignments on the backend. He also discussed Michigan's blitz rate, which has been dramatically reduced from one of the highest in the country, to seemingly one of the lowest the last two weeks...

In this episode, Zach Shaw and Steve Lorenz break down the Michigan football team's 31-20 win over Michigan State, what the Wolverines showed in the game, and what it means for the rivalry moving forward.

They open with a look at the offense, which was as run-dominant as Michigan has been all season. They discuss the run game's success, especially in the second half, as well as the shortcomings on multiple fronts in the passing game.

In the second half of the episode, they look at Michigan's defense, which was dominant for most of the g...

Sam Webb and Former Wolverine Tim McCormick preview the 2025/26 Michigan basketball season in the special LIVE edition of The Michigan Basketball Insider. Tim highlights the team's impressive talent, depth, and versatility. He highlighted Yaxel Lendeborg as the best player in the Big 10, Morez Johnson a "severe lob threat" that reminds him of "a young Jalen Duren", and a passing "savant" at point guard in Elliott Cadeau.

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In this episode, Zach Shaw and Steve Lorenz break down the Michigan football team's upcoming game at Michigan State, looking at the keys for the Wolverines and prominent storylines in the matchup.

They open with a look at Michigan's offense, and what needs to be done against the Spartans' struggling defense. They discuss the Wolverines picking up where they left off in last week's simplified, higher-efficiency passing game, players they would like to see more of if the game goes as expected and other factors to watch from each position group.

In the second half of...

Vance Bedford and Sam Webb discussed Michigan's defensive performance, highlighting the team's accountability and improvements against Washington after a disappointing loss to USC. Bedford praised the defensive line for their effective play, giving them an A, and noted the linebackers' contributions, awarding them an A-minus. The secondary faced challenges, particularly in zone coverages, earning a B-. Bedford emphasized the importance maintaining focus versus Michigan State's mobile quarterback Aidan Chiles. He predicted a 35-17 win for Michigan, stressing the need for a strong defensive performance to complement the offense.

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In this week's episode Al Borges and Sam Webb discussed Michigan's offensive performance in its 24-7 victory over Washington, and preview the upcoming matchup with Michigan State. Borges praised Bryce Underwood for his growth as a pocket passer and continued RPO proficiency. The offensive line received a B+ grade, paving the way for Jordan Marshall's 133 yards on the ground and surrendering just six pressures. Borges also noted the young players' growth, particularly the tight ends Zack Marshall and Deakon Tonielli and running back, and the potential for future success. He detailed the performance of Blake Frazier at left tackle...