ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Michigan Wolverines head coach Sherrone Moore discussed the team’s self-scouting and areas for improvement following their recent bye week while also preparing for their upcoming game against the Wisconsin Badgers.
Moore said the team focused on fundamentals, including tackling and ball security, on both offense and defense.
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“We had a team tackling circuit, a team ball security circuit,” said Moore, emphasizing the importance of the basics as they relate to special teams as well.
Moore stressed the value of recommitting to the process not only after losses but also after wins and during bye weeks.
Offense
Offensively, the team focused on reducing drops by creating competition in the receiver room and emphasizing the fundamentals of catching the football.
Moore highlighted the importance of ball placement by quarterbacks and hand placement by receivers and tight ends.
Defensively
Defensively, the focus remained on physicality, tackling, hand placement, and eye discipline, especially with the upcoming challenge posed by Wisconsin’s offense.
Player health
Regarding player health, Moore expressed optimism about the return to good condition of key players Giovanni El-Hadi, Hogan Hansen, Brady Prieskorn, Zeke Berry, and Jyaire Hill.
Regarding Hogan’s role, Moore said, “Gio’s a guy that, you know, his job’s secure. He’s earned it from his time he’s played already.”
The offensive line’s improvement was attributed to harder play, better technique, and consistent physicality.
Moore credited the players and coach Grant Newsome for their work and stressed the importance of pad level, hand placement, and eye discipline.
Veteran leadership from players like Derrick Moore was praised for their on-field pressures and off-field example-setting, including prehabilitation, rehabilitation, nutrition, and recovery.
Moore also discussed quarterback Jake Garcia’s development and confidence gained through practice and preparation since spring.
He commended Garcia’s readiness to help the team win games.
Moore spoke about Greg Crippen’s perseverance and growth from a true freshman to a starter, highlighting his example of commitment.
Moore explained the rationale behind adding experienced coaches Juan Castillo and Erik Campbell, emphasizing their familiarity with Michigan and dedication to player development.
He confirmed Andrew Babalola had successful surgery and is recovering well.
Bye week
Young players who stood out during the bye week included receivers Andrew Marsh, Jamar Browder, Jasper Parker, and defensive players Elijah Dotson and Nate Owusu-Boateng.
Moore described the linebacker group as the best in the country, with depth and versatility.
Receiver drops
On receiver drops, Moore noted the main issue is where the receiver’s eyes are when catching the ball, stressing the importance of seeing the ball all the way to the tuck.
He criticized the coaching advice across college football for simply telling players to “catch the ball” without teaching proper technique.
During receiver practice, Moore said players use both quarterback reps and machines, such as jugs and the Monarc, to improve their catching skills.
Wisconsin preview
Moore previewed Wisconsin’s run defense as the nation’s best, describing their physical, downhill style and varied coverage schemes.
He emphasized the need for sound execution against Wisconsin’s multiple looks.
On the success of the offensive line, Moore said mentality and technique are key, with confidence playing a major role.
Moore praised Michigan’s physicality and consistency as they prepare for the game against the Badgers.
He acknowledged Wisconsin’s quarterback, Billy Edwards Jrs, uncertainly but said the team is preparing for all possibilities.
Regarding quarterback Bryce Underwood, Moore said the focus during the bye week was similar to that of previous weeks, with an emphasis on fundamentals and accuracy.
Moore praised Jake Guarnera’s fearless play at center and said the starting spot remains competitive.
He noted the importance of balancing reps to preserve players’ health.
Finally, Moore discussed game planning against Wisconsin’s strong run defense, emphasizing structural adjustments and attacking personnel weaknesses.
Kickoff is slated for high noon inside The Big House in Ann Arbor.