The Michigan Wolverines are off to a blazing start this season, thanks in large part to their talented group of freshmen. Led by an all-freshmen offensive line, the Wolverines have the number one offense in the country and are making a strong case for a spot in the College Football Playoff.
The offensive line, which features five freshmen starters, has been the backbone of Michigan’s success. The group, which includes left tackle Xavier Worthy, left guard Raheem Anderson II, center Braden McGregor, right guard Kechaun Bennett, and right tackle Keegan VanHorn, has been dominant in the trenches and has paved the way for the Wolverines’ explosive offense.
Through their first four games, Michigan is averaging 50.3 points per game and has racked up over 2,200 yards of total offense. They’ve scored over 60 points in three of their four games, including a 70-point outburst against Rutgers.
The success of the offense can also be attributed to the play of freshman quarterback J.J. McCarthy. The highly-touted recruit has been impressive in his first season at Michigan, throwing for 1,245 yards and 15 touchdowns with just one interception. He’s also added two rushing touchdowns to his resume.
Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh has been impressed with the play of his young team and praised their work ethic and dedication. “These guys are hungry and they’re motivated,” he said. “They come to work every day with a chip on their shoulder and they’re not satisfied with where they’re at. They want to be great, and that’s what’s driving them.”
The Wolverines’ success has not gone unnoticed, as they are currently ranked number two in the country in the AP Poll and are in the conversation for a spot in the College Football Playoff. They’ll face their toughest test of the season this week when they take on the number eight-ranked Iowa Hawkeyes.
Whether or not the Wolverines can maintain their high level of play remains to be seen, but with their talented group of freshmen leading the way, they’re certainly a team to watch as the season progresses.
