Michigan Spring Game PREVIEW - Three Keys Podcast By cover art

Michigan Spring Game PREVIEW - Three Keys

Michigan Spring Game PREVIEW - Three Keys

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Video Basics Host: John D'Adamo (speaking from a hotel in Louisville; he won't attend live).Context: Less than 24 hours until the Michigan Wolverines spring game (Maize vs. Blue).Game Details: Date/Time: Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. Eastern.Broadcast: Big Ten Network (also free to attend at The Big House with tailgates). Postgame: TJ Ronin and the Avengers will host a live Michigan postgame show from Ann Arbor (studio setup on site); possible special guests.Call to Action: Like, subscribe, hit the bell for weekly content ("all gas, no breaks"). Three Keys / Things to Watch John outlines three main things to focus on during the spring game, which will be very basic/no-contact (like a Thursday practice — base defense, limited exotic looks, no blitzing). First Look at Jason Beck's Offense New offensive coordinator Jason Beck (came from Utah, where he built a top-5/6 offense nationally).Bryce Underwood (and most starters) expected to play only in the first quarter, no-contact.What to look for: RPOs (run-pass options) — watch Bryce's decision-making and choices post-snap.Improved footwork and fundamentals from Bryce Underwood.Overall offensive flow vs. the previous "Frankenstein's monster" of conflicting influences (e.g., Sherrone Moore + Chip Lindsay era). Scheme notes: Primarily 11 personnel (3–5 wide receivers), but will mix in some 12 personnel, eye formation, two-tight-end sets, and two-RB sets. Expect some physicality/run game elements to fit current personnel (many players from 2023–2025 teams are used to a physical style).Beck is the sole play-caller — first time in a while Michigan has had one clear voice (possibly since Rich Rodriguez or Al Borges eras; Harbaugh and Moore years had multiple inputs). Quarterback rotation: Bryce in Q1; Tommy Carr in Q2 and one half; Chase Herbstreit (likely a walk-on or developmental QB) in the other half of the second half — good battle to watch.Other notes: Andrew Marsh and JJ Buchanan likely limited after Q1. Offensive line will be without some players due to injury (e.g., Evan Link, Andrew Babalola). Showcase for Savon (Savion) Hiter Highly touted 2026 recruit (5-star, nation's top RB prospect) — exceptionally fast per high school film (possibly one of the fastest Michigan has seen).This will be his first game action at The Big House.Questions: How does his speed translate to college level? Can the offensive line (depleted by injuries/sit-outs like Evan Link and Babalola) create enough separation?Expect heavy showcasing, especially if Jordan Marshall (potential starter) sits — look for carries for Hiter, Bryson (likely Kudstall or similar), and other young RBs.Overall: First chance to see if he can "break out" in a Michigan uniform. Defense (Ahead of Offense, as Expected) + Jay Hill's Scheme Reports throughout spring: Defense has been ahead of the offense (standard and not concerning; opposite would be more worrisome).Kyle Whittingham noted the defensive line is currently ahead of the offensive line (partly due to injuries).Jay Hill (new DC, possible future head coach candidate) installing his system — likely a 4-2-5 base (Ravens-influenced elements?). Differences from prior Michigan 4-2-5 or 4-3 defenses: Watch for nuances in this "brand new" look.Game plan: Very base, hang-back, no blitzes or exotic looks (protecting the new offense from over-exposing schemes in front of fans/TV). Key questions: With stars like Will Johnson/Smith Snowden and others likely limited, who steps up? Potential standouts: Zeke Barry, Shamari Earles, or other young/backup defenders. Goal: See how the unit performs in a controlled setting while implementing new concepts. Additional Context from John The spring game is a low-stakes first public look — not full contact or game-speed, but still valuable for evaluating scheme fit, QB decision-making, young talent (especially skill players), and depth.Personnel adaptation: Beck knows he can't just install a Utah-style offense wholesale; he must adapt to Michigan's current roster strengths (physical run game roots).Excitement level: First real Michigan football action since the previous season — even if it's Michigan vs. Michigan. Promotion in the Video New article on Voice of College Football (vocfb.com) with a more fleshed-out version of these points.Regular shows: Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8:00 p.m. Eastern.Go Blue! These notes capture the full ~10-minute video cleanly. The spring game itself is today (April 18, 2026) — enjoy the broadcast on BTN and the postgame coverage from the VOCFB crew! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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