Michigan Football: How Many Starters Did They Really Lose?

Fresh off their triumphant 2023 National Championship, the Michigan Wolverines captivated the college football world, cementing their legacy with an undefeated season. High expectations naturally follow such a monumental achievement, yet the landscape of college football is ever-shifting. As the confetti settled, so too began the inevitable cycle of change: a significant roster transformation driven by the lure of the NFL Draft, the culmination of careers through Graduation, and strategic Transfers.

The burning question on every fan's mind isn't if Michigan will face significant roster turnover, but precisely how many key starters have truly departed? What does this mean for the team's ability to maintain its elite status?

This article delves deep into the numbers, offering a precise, analytical breakdown of the Wolverines' offseason exodus. We'll quantify the impact of these changes, dissecting the vacant roles and assessing the immediate implications for team performance. Prepare for an exhaustive look at the new challenges and opportunities facing the reigning champions.

Image taken from the YouTube channel The Wolverine: Michigan Football and Basketball , from the video titled Important distinction when talking about Michigan football's QB battle this fall I #goblue .

After a historic season culminating in a national championship, the Michigan Wolverines face the formidable task of defending their title amidst significant roster upheaval.

Beyond the Banner: What Remains of Michigan's Championship Core?

The roar of victory still echoes in Ann Arbor, but the confetti has settled, and the Michigan Wolverines find themselves at a pivotal crossroads. Following a perfect 15-0 season, capped by a resounding victory in the College Football Playoff National Championship, expectations for the program have never been higher. Fans and analysts alike eagerly anticipate how Jim Harbaugh's successor, Sherrone Moore, will navigate the treacherous waters of title defense. However, the path ahead is complicated by a familiar, yet formidable, challenge: the annual ebb and flow of college football rosters.

The Inevitable Roster Shake-Up

The glory of a championship season often comes with an inevitable consequence: significant roster changes. For the Michigan Wolverines, this offseason has been particularly transformative, driven by a confluence of factors:

• NFL Draft Declarations: A championship run often puts a spotlight on top talent, leading many eligible players to declare early for the NFL Draft. Michigan, loaded with professional prospects, has seen a considerable number of its stars opt for the next level.
• Graduation: The natural cycle of college sports means that many senior leaders and multi-year starters exhaust their eligibility, moving on from the collegiate ranks.
• Transfer Portal Dynamics: The modern college football landscape is heavily influenced by the transfer portal, which allows players to move between programs with increasing frequency. While Michigan has also utilized the portal to bring in talent, it inevitably sees departures through this mechanism as well.

These combined forces have reshaped the Wolverines' outlook for the upcoming season, turning the page from celebration to strategic rebuilding.

The Crucial Question: Counting the Departed Starters

Amidst the celebratory afterglow and the buzz of coaching changes, the central question looming over the Michigan program is simple yet profound: How many key starters truly departed? Understanding the precise number and identity of these players is paramount to assessing the team's immediate future. It's not just about raw numbers, but about the quality, experience, and leadership that have walked out the door. Identifying who is gone allows us to accurately gauge the impact on team performance and highlight the crucial vacant roles that new and returning players must fill.

Charting the Path Forward: Our Analytical Approach

This article aims to provide a clear, analytical look at the Wolverines' offseason exodus. We will move beyond general discussions to meticulously identify and quantify the losses, particularly focusing on players who held consistent starting roles or were critical contributors. By breaking down the roster changes by offensive and defensive units, we can begin to comprehend the specific challenges that lie ahead for Coach Moore and his staff. Our goal is to dissect where the most significant voids exist, setting the stage for an informed discussion about the team's prospects and the areas requiring immediate attention.

To begin our deep dive, let's quantify the significant losses on the offensive unit.

The previous section provided an overview of the significant personnel shifts within the Michigan Wolverines program; now, our focus narrows to quantify the precise impact of these changes on the team's potent offensive unit.

Counting the Offensive Cost: The Starters Gone from Ann Arbor's Attack

The Michigan Wolverines' championship-winning 2023 offense was a finely tuned machine, blending power, precision, and playmaking ability. However, the offseason has seen a substantial dismantling of this unit, with key contributors declaring for the NFL Draft, exhausting their eligibility, or entering the transfer portal. This exodus presents a formidable challenge for the coaching staff under new head coach Sherrone Moore as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Quarterback: The Departure of a Commander

The most significant departure from the offensive side is undoubtedly J.J. McCarthy, the starting quarterback who declared for the NFL Draft. McCarthy evolved into a highly efficient and clutch passer, known for his leadership, composure under pressure, and ability to extend plays. His departure leaves a massive void, as he was the undisputed leader of the offense and possessed a unique skill set crucial to Michigan's balanced attack. Finding a successor who can replicate his on-field production and intangible leadership will be paramount for maintaining offensive continuity.

Running Back: Losing a Heisman Contender

Equally impactful is the loss of star running back Blake Corum, who also declared for the NFL Draft. Corum was the heart and soul of Michigan's ground game, a consistent touchdown threat, and a power back capable of moving piles and breaking long runs. His exceptional vision, balance, and unwavering effort made him a cornerstone of the offense. While Donovan Edwards returns as a proven talent, the sheer volume of carries and critical short-yardage conversions that Corum provided will be difficult to replace, necessitating other backs to step up significantly.

Wide Receiver and Tight End: Diminished Aerial Threats

The Wolverines' aerial attack also sees notable losses. Roman Wilson, a dynamic wide receiver known for his speed and big-play ability, declared for the NFL Draft after a breakout senior season. His ability to stretch the field and make contested catches will be sorely missed. Additionally, veteran receiver Cornelius Johnson exhausted his eligibility and has declared for the NFL Draft, taking with him valuable experience and reliable hands. At tight end, AJ Barner, a key contributor in the blocking scheme and a reliable pass-catcher, also declared for the NFL Draft after transferring to Michigan for his final collegiate season. These departures necessitate new receivers and tight ends to emerge and fill critical roles in the passing game.

Offensive Line: The Foundation Crumbles

Michigan's offensive line has been a consistent strength, earning the Joe Moore Award for the nation's best offensive line twice in recent years. However, this unit will see substantial turnover. Guard Zak Zinter, a consensus All-American and a vital anchor on the interior, declared for the NFL Draft despite suffering a season-ending injury. His leadership and dominant run-blocking presence are irreplaceable. Fellow starting guard Trevor Keegan also declared for the NFL Draft, leaving another significant gap in experience and talent. Furthermore, starting center Drake Nugent, a graduate transfer from Stanford who anchored the line effectively in 2023, exhausted his eligibility. The departures of these three experienced starters mean the Wolverines will need to rebuild the interior of their offensive line, a critical component of their identity.

Beyond the Draft: Graduation and Other Departures

While the NFL Draft declarations receive the most headlines, additional offensive departures due to graduation or potential transfers further impact the team's depth chart. Beyond the names mentioned above, other experienced players who contributed to the offensive depth or special teams roles also move on, creating a ripple effect. This requires younger players to accelerate their development and potentially impacts the overall offensive flexibility and ability to rotate linemen or wide receivers without a significant drop-off in performance. The collective loss of experience at multiple positions means the new offensive coordinator will be working with a much younger and less proven group.

Challenges and Opportunities for Sherrone Moore's Offense

Under new head coach Sherrone Moore, who previously served as the offensive coordinator, the challenges are clear: replicate championship-level offensive output with significantly altered personnel. This situation also presents unique opportunities. The departure of established starters opens doors for emerging talents to step into larger roles and define a new era of Michigan football. Moore and his staff will need to evaluate the existing talent meticulously, potentially adapt their schemes to leverage new strengths, and fast-track the development of younger players. The initial assessment suggests a period of transition where offensive identity may evolve, balancing the familiar power running game with new playmakers and a less experienced offensive line. The cohesion of the new unit will be a critical factor in team performance.

Below is a summary of key offensive starters who have departed:

Having detailed the significant changes on the offensive side of the ball, the spotlight now shifts to the equally impactful losses on a championship-caliber defense.

After analyzing the crucial changes to the offensive lineup, it's equally imperative to turn our attention to the other side of the ball, where Michigan's championship-caliber defense faces its own significant transformation.

Rebuilding the Wall: Michigan's Defensive Challenge Post-Championship

The Michigan Wolverines' 2023 national championship run was underpinned by a truly dominant defense, one that consistently stifled opponents and created game-changing plays. However, replicating that formidable unit will be a significant challenge in the upcoming season, as the team grapples with the departure of several key defensive starters across all three levels.

The Departures Defined: A Look at Lost Defensive Starters

The defensive unit that anchored Michigan's championship success saw a remarkable cohesion and talent level. Now, a substantial portion of that talent is moving on, creating significant voids for the coaching staff to fill.

NFL Draft Bound: Pivotal Stars Moving On

The lure of the NFL Draft has claimed three of Michigan's most impactful defensive players, each of whom played an indispensable role in the team's championship season:

• Kris Jenkins (Defensive Line): A cornerstone of the defensive front, Jenkins commanded double teams and was a disruptive force both against the run and as an interior pass rusher. His power and tenacity were central to Michigan's ability to control the line of scrimmage.
• Junior Colson (Linebacker): As the undisputed leader of the linebacker corps and arguably the entire defense, Colson was a tackling machine and an exceptional communicator. His sideline-to-sideline range, ability to diagnose plays, and leadership will be profoundly missed.
• Mike Sainristil (Defensive Back): From former wide receiver to a dominant slot cornerback and defensive captain, Sainristil embodied Michigan's defensive identity. His elite coverage skills, relentless blitzing ability, and innate playmaking (highlighted by crucial interceptions) made him one of the nation's best defensive backs. His leadership and big-play ability are irreplaceable.
• Jaylen Harrell (Defensive Line/Edge): A consistent presence off the edge, Harrell was a key component of Michigan's pass rush, providing valuable pressure and setting the edge against the run.

Graduation and Transfer Impact: Shifting the Depth Chart

Beyond the NFL-bound talent, the Wolverines' defensive depth chart will also feel the effects of players graduating and seeking new opportunities through the transfer portal. These departures, while perhaps less high-profile than the NFL Draft declarations, nonetheless create significant holes that demand new players to step up.

• Michael Barrett (Linebacker): A veteran presence alongside Colson, Barrett's experience, versatility, and ability to make plays in space were vital. His leadership and understanding of the defensive scheme cultivated over multiple seasons will be a void at the linebacker position.
• Josh Wallace (Defensive Back): A crucial addition via the transfer portal for the 2023 season, Wallace quickly solidified a starting cornerback spot. His experience and reliable coverage were essential in the secondary.
• Keon Sabb (Defensive Back): While not a full-time starter in every game, Sabb was a critical piece of the safety rotation and played significant snaps, showcasing his potential before transferring to another program. His departure reduces immediate depth and talent in the secondary.

These collective departures necessitate a significant retooling of the defensive roster, requiring younger players and potential new transfers to ascend into larger roles.

Key Defensive Starters Lost

The following table summarizes the significant defensive starters and key contributors who have departed from the Michigan Wolverines:

The Aftermath: Altering Defensive Identity and Performance

The sheer volume and caliber of defensive talent lost will undoubtedly force the Michigan Wolverines to recalibrate their defensive identity for the upcoming season.

A New Defensive Blueprint?

For the past few seasons, Michigan's defense has been characterized by its physicality, disciplined gap integrity, and a ferocious pass rush. With the departure of key linemen like Jenkins and edge rushers like Harrell, along with the heart of the linebacker corps in Colson and Barrett, and the playmaking ability of Sainristil in the secondary, the team may need to adapt its approach. While the underlying defensive philosophy from coordinator Jesse Minter will likely remain, the execution may change. Expect younger players to be thrust into larger roles, and the coaching staff will need to find new ways to generate pressure and maintain stout run defense without the familiar faces. The emphasis might shift more heavily towards scheme versatility and developing a new core of leaders.

Big Ten Implications

Within the highly competitive Big Ten Conference, a slight dip in defensive performance can have significant consequences. Opposing offenses, particularly those with strong passing attacks or established run games, will look to exploit any perceived weaknesses. While Michigan has a strong recruiting pipeline and a track record of developing talent, the immediate challenge will be to maintain an elite defensive standard. Their ability to quickly integrate new starters and maintain defensive cohesion will be paramount in their pursuit of another conference title and national contention. The team's overall performance will heavily hinge on how effectively they can rebuild this "defensive wall" against the formidable offenses they will face.

As we dissect the changes on both sides of the ball, it becomes clear that these individual adjustments will collectively shape the Michigan Wolverines' overall roster dynamics and dictate their capacity for success.

The echoes of a championship season, while triumphant, often fade to reveal the profound shifts occurring within the roster, compelling us to move beyond the individual departures and assess the collective impact on the team's foundation.

The Price of Dominance: Measuring the Seismic Shift in Michigan's Roster

Winning a national championship in college football often comes with a significant, albeit expected, cost: the departure of a substantial portion of the veteran core. For the Michigan Wolverines, their glorious 2023 campaign has indeed ushered in a period of unprecedented roster turnover, presenting both immediate challenges and long-term strategic considerations for the program. The sheer volume of outgoing talent, particularly among established starters, necessitates a comprehensive evaluation of its implications for the team's competitive standing.

Quantifying the Exodus: A Look at Departed Starters

The Wolverines are set to navigate the upcoming season without a significant contingent of their championship-winning starters across all three phases of the game. On offense, key playmakers and stalwart offensive linemen have declared for the NFL Draft or exhausted their eligibility. Defensively, the unit that terrorized opposing offenses, particularly upfront and in the secondary, has seen an equally substantial exodus. While special teams often feature fewer 'starters' in the traditional sense, key contributors in the kicking game and return units have also moved on.

To illustrate the breadth of these departures, particularly among those who played critical starting roles or significant rotational snaps, the following table summarizes the impact:

This tally represents a significant portion of the starting lineup and crucial rotational depth that defined Michigan's championship success.

The Magnitude of Change: A Conference and National Context

In the realm of college football, especially within the fiercely competitive Big Ten Conference, losing 14 projected starters or key contributors is an exceptionally high figure, even for a national champion. While successful programs typically see an influx of players heading to the NFL Draft, this level of turnover is at the higher end of the spectrum, posing a unique challenge. Many teams might lose a handful of starters, but a complete overhaul of key positions like quarterback, multiple offensive linemen, and a significant portion of the defensive front and secondary simultaneously is rare. This magnitude of change could reset expectations for even the most dominant programs, as it's not merely about replacing talent, but also about rebuilding cohesion and chemistry.

Immediate and Long-Term Implications for Team Performance

The impact of such extensive roster changes will undoubtedly ripple through the Michigan Wolverines' program, affecting both their immediate performance and their long-term competitive trajectory.

Immediate Performance Outlook

In the short term, the primary implication is a significant experience gap. A team that once boasted a roster filled with multi-year starters and seasoned veterans will now rely heavily on younger, less experienced players stepping into crucial roles. This can lead to:

• Learning Curve: New starters will need time to adjust to the speed and intensity of collegiate competition, particularly in the Big Ten.
• Reduced Margin for Error: The collective experience of the departed often meant fewer mental errors and better execution in critical moments. The new roster may lack this ingrained precision early on.
• Depth Concerns: While Michigan has recruited well, the sheer volume of departures may test the depth chart at multiple positions, making injuries even more impactful.

Long-Term Competitive Standing

From a long-term perspective, how Michigan navigates this transition will define its future competitive standing. Successfully integrating new talent and maintaining a high level of performance despite such turnover can reinforce the program's elite status and its ability to reload rather than rebuild. Conversely, a significant drop-off could temper recruiting momentum and alter perceptions of the program's sustainability at the pinnacle of the sport. The ability to continue attracting top talent and developing it rapidly will be paramount in maintaining their competitive edge in the Big Ten and on the national stage.

The Leadership Vacuum: More Than Just Snap Counts

Beyond the raw numbers of starters lost, the departure of this veteran group creates a profound leadership vacuum. The championship team was replete with multi-year captains and influential voices who shaped the locker room culture, provided on-field guidance, and inspired their teammates. Players like J.J. McCarthy, Blake Corum, Mike Sainristil, and Kris Jenkins were not just highly productive on the field; they were the emotional and intellectual backbone of the squad, embodying the "Michigan Man" ethos.

Their absence means that new leaders must emerge, not only in terms of performance but also in their ability to unite the team, instill discipline, and maintain the winning culture that has been meticulously built. This intangible loss of collective experience, mentorship, and on-field communication could be as challenging to overcome as the raw talent void, requiring a rapid maturation process for those stepping into leadership roles.

As the program braces for this transformative period, the focus inevitably shifts to who will step up and embrace the challenge of continuing the championship legacy.

While the previous section analyzed the significant roster changes Michigan faces, the immediate focus shifts to how the Wolverines will address these vacancies and cultivate the next generation of stars.

Cultivating Tomorrow's Champions: Sherrone Moore's Blueprint for Michigan's Evolving Roster

As the Michigan Wolverines transition into a new era under Head Coach Sherrone Moore, a critical challenge and opportunity lies in identifying and developing the players who will step into crucial roles left vacant by departing talent. This process is not merely about filling gaps but about fostering growth, leveraging existing strengths, and strategically integrating new blood to maintain the program's elite standing.

Returning Talent and Emerging Stars

The foundation of Michigan's revamped roster rests on a core of returning veterans and a promising cohort of players poised for significantly expanded roles. On offense, the spotlight shines on running back Donovan Edwards, who is expected to lead the ground game after sharing duties for years. His experience and versatility will be paramount. At tight end, Colston Loveland emerges as a primary target, possessing the athleticism to be a game-changer. Key receivers like Semaj Morgan and Fredrick Moore are anticipated to elevate their contributions, stepping into starting or expanded roles following the departure of veteran pass-catchers. The offensive line, while losing key starters, retains talent that has been developing within the program, ready to assert themselves.

Defensively, the Wolverines boast proven leaders who will anchor the unit. Will Johnson is poised to be one of the nation's top cornerbacks, providing elite coverage. Defensive tackles Mason Graham and Kenneth Grant, having already demonstrated their formidable presence, are expected to lead the interior defensive line, continuing Michigan's tradition of stout run defense. In the secondary, Rod Moore's return at safety offers a crucial experienced presence, while players like Jaishawn Barham, a transfer linebacker, are expected to slot into starting positions, bringing their collegiate experience to Ann Arbor.

The Foundation: Player Development and Depth Chart Readiness

The success of filling these roles hinges heavily on Sherrone Moore's commitment to player development, a hallmark of the Michigan program. The coaching staff has meticulously cultivated a robust depth chart over several seasons, ensuring that many players now stepping into starting roles are not entirely new to the system but have been patiently developing behind NFL-caliber talent. This structured approach means that even players who haven't seen extensive game action are often prepared physically and mentally for the demands of collegiate play. The readiness of the existing depth chart provides a crucial buffer, minimizing the learning curve for new starters and emphasizing a "next man up" mentality that has served the Wolverines well.

New Faces: Immediate Impact Freshmen and Transfers

Beyond the returning talent, Michigan's strategic approach to roster construction includes integrating promising incoming freshmen and impactful transfers. While specific names will emerge during fall camp, the coaching staff has targeted players who fit the team's culture and possess the physical tools to contribute immediately. Transfers, in particular, offer a quicker path to filling critical needs with proven collegiate experience, especially in positions requiring maturity and specific skill sets. These additions are not just about numbers but about raising the overall competitive bar within the team.

Here's a look at some of the potential new starters and key contributors filling essential roles:

Sherrone Moore's Strategic Approach

Head Coach Sherrone Moore and his staff are tasked with preparing this revamped lineup for the rigors of the upcoming season. Their strategic approach will be multifaceted:

1. Cultivating Competition: Encouraging intense but healthy competition at every position to identify the most prepared players and push the entire roster to improve.
2. Fundamental Soundness: Doubling down on basic techniques and assignments, ensuring every player understands their role and executes with precision.
3. Scheme Adaptation: Tailoring offensive and defensive schemes to best utilize the unique strengths of the new personnel rather than forcing players into a rigid system.
4. Leadership Development: Identifying and empowering new leaders on both sides of the ball to foster cohesion and accountability.
5. Mental Fortitude: Instilling the mental toughness and resilience necessary to perform under pressure, especially given the high expectations that accompany the defending national champions.

Projected Impact on Competitiveness

While significant turnover might suggest a step back, the established culture of development and the caliber of talent within the Michigan program suggest otherwise. In the Big Ten Conference, Michigan is projected to remain a top contender. Their ability to develop players and maintain strong line play, combined with elite defensive talent, positions them well against conference rivals. The strategic additions through transfer and the readiness of internal depth will be crucial for navigating a challenging schedule.

Nationally, the Wolverines will face skepticism regarding their ability to replicate the success of the past three seasons, particularly without their starting quarterback and several NFL-bound stars. However, a successful development cycle and strong coaching under Sherrone Moore could see Michigan remain in the conversation for a College Football Playoff berth. The ultimate outcome will depend on how quickly the new starters gel, the consistency of quarterback play, and the continued dominance of the defensive line. The team's competitiveness will largely be defined by its ability to maintain its physical identity and a high standard of execution.

This strategic roster reconstruction is merely one facet of a broader plan to ensure the Michigan Wolverines not only maintain their elite status but also redefine it in the years to come.

Having explored the emerging talent and strategic player development under Sherrone Moore in the preceding section, we now turn our attention to the broader landscape of the Michigan Wolverines as they prepare to embark on a new era.

After the Farewell Tour: Charting Michigan's Course in the Post-Championship Landscape

The triumphant conclusion of the 2023 season, culminating in a National Championship, marked not only a pinnacle of achievement but also a significant turning point for the Michigan Wolverines. The inevitable consequence of such success, coupled with the natural cycles of college football, has led to substantial roster adjustments.

The Shifting Sands of the Roster

The offseason has seen an extensive departure of seasoned talent, a common occurrence for championship-winning teams. Quantitatively, the Wolverines are set to replace more than a dozen starters from their championship-winning squad, including key figures on both offense and defense. This includes the quarterback, multiple stalwarts on the offensive line, top running backs, and several impactful defensive playmakers who have moved on to the NFL or exhausted their eligibility. This level of roster turnover represents one of the most significant shifts for the program in recent memory, prompting questions about immediate continuity.

The Unseen Strength: Development as the Bedrock

Despite the substantial losses in starting experience, the foundation for continued team performance remains robust. This resilience is largely attributable to Michigan's established culture of strong player development and an exceptionally well-coached system. The departure of key starters creates opportunities, not voids, for the next wave of talent that has been meticulously groomed within the program. As highlighted previously, the coaching staff has a proven track record of identifying, nurturing, and integrating talent, ensuring that players are not merely filling roles but are prepared to contribute at a high level. The continuity in coaching philosophy and the depth built through consistent recruitment and development mitigate the impact of veteran departures, transforming potential weaknesses into opportunities for new strengths to emerge.

Sherrone Moore's Helm: Charting a New Course

The appointment of Sherrone Moore as head coach signals an optimistic outlook for the program. Moore, a respected figure within the team and a key architect of the championship offense, brings a deep understanding of Michigan's successful blueprint while also possessing the vision and leadership to adapt and evolve. His familiarity with the current roster, coupled with his energetic approach, positions the Wolverines to navigate this transitional period with confidence. The team’s ability to adapt to new schemes, integrate young talent, and maintain a competitive edge will be a testament to Moore's leadership and the coaching staff's collective expertise. The expectation is not merely to rebuild but to reload, leveraging the established winning culture to maintain their position among college football's elite.

The Road Ahead: Sustaining the Ascent

The Michigan Wolverines' journey in college football continues with renewed purpose. While the landscape of the Big Ten Conference is also undergoing significant changes with expansion and new competitive dynamics, Michigan's commitment to excellence, disciplined play, and continuous player improvement positions them well for sustained success. The pursuit of continued dominance in the Big Ten and a renewed bid for national prominence will define this new era, driven by a blend of proven methodologies and fresh perspectives.

As the team prepares for the challenges and opportunities of the upcoming season, a pivotal question arises: How do you anticipate the Michigan Wolverines will perform under Sherrone Moore in this new era of significant roster change?

Video: Michigan Football: How Many Starters Did They Really Lose?

Play Video

In wrapping up our detailed analysis, it's clear the Michigan Wolverines face a significant, yet not insurmountable, challenge following their championship season. We've precisely quantified the starters lost across offense and defense—a testament to the program's success and the individual talent within it. While the sheer volume of roster changes might seem daunting, it's crucial to remember that Michigan's foundation is built on robust player development and a consistently strong coaching staff, now under the leadership of Head Coach Sherrone Moore.

This isn't merely a rebuilding year; it's an evolution. The Wolverines are poised to adapt, with promising emerging talent ready to fill vacant roles and continue the winning tradition. Their journey in College football remains one of ambition and resilience, with the pursuit of continued success in the fiercely competitive Big Ten Conference at its core.

What are your expectations for the revamped Wolverines in the upcoming season? Will the new era under Coach Moore maintain Michigan's championship trajectory?