One definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results. With that in mind, rolling into next season with the exact same coaching staff is unlikely to solve Michigan’s issues. A shakeup is almost inevitable, but I don’t expect head coach Sherrone Moore to be on the chopping block just yet. It’s unrealistic to expect Michigan to fire Moore this early into his tenure, but it’s fair to start assessing his staff and identifying where change is needed.
Given the offensive struggles, the first name that comes up is offensive coordinator Kirk Campbell. After serving as the passing game coordinator last year, Campbell showed some creative play-calling in his first season as OC. However, the offense has failed to find any rhythm, largely due to inconsistency at the quarterback position. Evaluating Campbell is tricky because without a reliable quarterback, his play-calling abilities are hard to judge. While we may not see the end of Campbell just yet, his performance will certainly be under review.
The most obvious candidate for scrutiny is defensive coordinator Wink Martindale. At first, comparisons to former Michigan defensive coordinator Don Brown felt premature. Martindale was heralded as the godfather of the Baltimore Ravens defense, a system that had worked wonders at Michigan under Mike MacDonald and Jesse Minter. The early comparisons to Brown seemed unfair, based more on Martindale’s gruff demeanor than his actual performance. But after witnessing Michigan’s defensive struggles this season—particularly in big games—the comparisons seem more justified. Martindale’s defense has shown a troubling weakness against the pass, allowing big plays far too often and failing to maximize the immense talent on the roster.
I think this Michigan coaching staff is going to surprise some people. I know it’s been a rough start but they are about to make a high level run on talent and I believe they will have a much better approach to the portal this offseason. Of course, we need to see some major…
— Wolverine Chronicle (@WolverineChron) October 25, 2024
With a defense loaded with NFL talent, it’s unacceptable for Michigan to be getting torched by teams they should be shutting down. The front seven, to their credit, has played well, so coaches on the defensive line and linebackers may be safe. However, first-year secondary coach LaMar Morgan faces some serious questions. Despite boasting one of the most talented secondaries in the country, including the nation’s top cornerback in Will Johnson, Michigan ranks a staggering 96th in the country in passing defense, allowing 234.1 yards per game. Johnson’s health issues have been a factor, but with such a stacked group, there’s no excuse for this level of underperformance.
Replacing Morgan might seem like an obvious move, but his recruiting success complicates things. He’s secured one of the most highly regarded safety duos in recent memory, Kainoa Winston and Ivan Taylor, both of whom are committed to Michigan. While there are whispers that Taylor could flip to Alabama, the recruiting potential Morgan brings to the table could make Michigan hesitant to part ways with him just yet.
When it’s all said and done, the most likely coaching change will be at defensive coordinator. Martindale’s system hasn’t lived up to expectations, and Michigan needs a coordinator who can implement a scheme that maximizes the team’s talent, especially in the secondary. While special teams have been inconsistent, it’s unlikely Michigan makes a move there unless Moore finds an obvious upgrade.
Ultimately, a new defensive coordinator with a reliable scheme, paired with a solution at quarterback, could be the catalyst for a Michigan turnaround. But with what appears to be the toughest remaining schedule in the country—including three games against likely top-10 opponents—it’s hard to see the current coaching staff and personnel making the necessary strides to salvage this season.
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