CADE MCNAMARA

PAW PAW, Mich. — It was a homecoming of sorts over the weekend for Karsen Barnhart, who brought some high-profile friends with him. Michigan’s offensive lineman returned to his alma mater, Paw Paw High School, to host a football camp for kids in kindergarten through eighth grade. Michigan OL Karsen Barnhart back at his alma mater hosting a football camp for K-8 kids; joined by OL Trevor Keegan, QB Cade McNamara and DL Braiden McGregor. “I’ve been out here (to Paw Paw) with Karsen multiple times; he’s one of my best friends,” McNamara said. “Karsen and I have become really close friends over the last two years, and I was always messing with him, (saying) ‘I need to come to Paw Paw,’” McGregor, a Port Huron native, said.

Class of 2019 Paw Paw graduate and current University of Michigan offensive lineman Karsen Barnhart and three of his teammates – quarterback Cade McNamara, offensive lineman Trevor Keegan and defensive lineman Braiden McGregor – will host a youth football camp at the high school from noon to 3 p.m. on Saturday, May 14. The camp is open for third graders to incoming eighth graders, and registration is $30. Prospective campers can pay with cash or check at the event or pay in advance using the Venmo code @Karsen-Barnhart. 26 prospect in the class of 2020, was the highest-ranked recruit of the four, and Barnhart is certainly the most well-known around Paw Paw, after playing four years of varsity football for the Red Wolves. “He loves Paw Paw; his family loves Paw Paw; they’re still a big part in the football program, and Karsen wants to be involved as much as possible.

Michigan opted to limit him during spring practice, instructing him to throw very little in order to allow it heal naturally. If McCarthy can stay healthy and no additional issues with his shoulder flare up, look for McNamara and McCarthy to duel for the starting role in fall camp. Michigan wide receiver Ronnie Bell (8) returns a punt in the second quarter of their college football game against Western Michigan at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor, on Saturday, September 4, 2021. (Mike Mulholland | MLive.com)Mike Mulholland | MLive.com• Meanwhile, receiver Ronnie Bell is nearing his return as well. Related: ‘I was about to score.’ Bell reflects on season-ending injury, talks comeback• Tight end Carter Selzer was limited for much of the spring with a nagging hamstring injury, Harbaugh revealed.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. — He’s big, he’s strong and he knows his stuff, setting the stage for what could be another strong season up front along Michigan’s offensive line. He entered the transfer portal after Bronco Mendenhall stepped aside, and Michigan immediately jumped to the top of his interest list. He’s strong. More Michigan football coverage from MLive:Ex-Michigan TE inks deal with NFL’s Cincinnati BengalsAidan Hutchinson visits Jaguars; still projected to go No. Stan Parrish, Tom Brady’s QBs coach at Michigan, has diedQB J.J. McCarthy (still) limited in Michigan’s spring game

“My first impressions when he early-enrolled — I was like, ‘That’s what a receiver should look like,’” running back Blake Corum said. “Obviously it’s different coming from high school to college, because in high school you’re the top dog — but in college you’re stepping in with a lot of top dogs. Scan the Michigan roster and you’ll find only one other receiver, Walker, taller than him and one receiver who weighs more (Johnson, 211 pounds). “He’s got muscle, he’s got speed, he’s got strong hands, and I think we were able to show that a little bit today. I can’t wait to see where his talents can go.”More Michigan football spring coverage from MLive:QB J.J. McCarthy (still) limited in Michigan’s spring gameA.J.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. — If you’re expecting Michigan to throw the ball more this fall, well, you might be in luck. “We have so many players, so many guys with skill,” quarterback Cade McNamara, who finished 3 for 7 for 16 yards on Saturday, said. “I think just the more that we have, I’m expecting us to be more dynamic.”Players cautioned the public from reading too much into the spring game from an Xs and Os standpoint, and rightfully so. “Once we start playing other teams, I’m going to have a lot of dudes to throw to,” McNamara said. I think we’re an offense that can really do everything.”Read more Michigan football spring coverage from MLive:QB J.J. McCarthy (still) limited in Michigan’s spring gameA.J.

With only bragging rights and a steak dinner at stake for the Wolverines’ spring game, any revelations about Jim Harbaugh’s 2022 team won’t come until the fall. Harbaugh and coaches were not made available to media following the game, but a handful of players did speak afterward. I had a prior relationship to him before he came to Michigan, but I think he’s very smart. I think he’s gonna bring a lot of experience a lot of maturity to our group.”-Left tackle Ryan Hayes on graduate transfer Olusegun Oluwatimi, this year’s projected starter at center. I think he’s a great athlete.

ANN ARBOR – Michigan football gave fans a sneak peek of its 2022 team Saturday, showing off a split roster scrimmage for the annual Spring Game. The Blue team, led by co-offensive coordinator Sherrone Moore, defeated the Maize team, led by co-defensive coordinator Steve Clinkscale, 20-12. Warren Davis and Alex Orji saw time for the Maize team, while Alan Bowman led the blue team, with J.J. McCarthy in uniform but remaining the sidelines after arm injury limited his spring practice. Former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick was named honorary captain for the game, and led the coin toss and a throwing exhibition at halftime. Check out the gallery above or click the link here to see all our photos.

ANN ARBOR – Cameras were all focused on midfield during halftime of Michigan’s spring football game on Saturday at Michigan Stadium. Kaepernick was invited by Jim Harbaugh, his former coach with the San Francisco 49ers, to spend the week with the Wolverines. He took part in two Michigan practices and was named an honorary captain for Saturday’s spring game. “Growing up in Reno, I was a 49er fan, so I always watched Coach Harbaugh with the 49ers, and ‘Kap’ was always the QB,” Michigan quarterback Cade McNamara said after Saturday’s exhibition. His halftime throwing session Saturday was sponsored by the Michigan student organization, “Wolverines Against Racism.”Read more Michigan football coverage from MLive:A.J.

Position changes, trick plays and lots of shuffling highlighted the Wolverines’ spring game at Michigan, the first glimpse of Jim Harbaugh’s team in 2022. The Blue team won the game, 20-12, but the result on a day like this is rather inconsequential. We’ve heard good things about him in spring, and he showed up for the spring game. Tight end to tight end. • Of course, it wouldn’t be a spring game without a bit of comedy.

ANN ARBOR – For the first time in three years, Michigan’s annual spring football game will be open to the public. Kickoff is at noon, Saturday, and MLive will be providing live updates throughout the scrimmage at Michigan Stadium. With McCarthy limited this spring, there has been more reps for graduate transfer Alan Bowman and walk-on Davis Warren, who are battling for the No. Continue to refresh this page for live updates from Michigan Stadium. Read more Michigan football spring coverage from MLive:A.J.

After leading Michigan to its first Big Ten championship in 16 years, Cade McNamara could be excused for expecting to be the quarterback getting the most attention at Saturday’s spring game.

The Wolverines are hosting their annual “Maize & Blue” spring game this Saturday, April 2, at Michigan Stadium (Noon ET, Big Ten Network), and for the first time in three years it’ll be open to the public. The Michigan roster has been split into two teams (Blue, Maize) via draft that took place earlier in the week. Sherrone Moore, Michigan tight ends coach, watches before an NCAA college football game against Rutgers in Ann Arbor, Mich., Saturday, Sept. 28, 2019. Michigan quarterback Cade McNamara (12) throws a pass while warming up before their college football game against Western Michigan at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor, on Saturday, September 4, 2021. Read more Michigan football spring coverage from MLive:A.J.

Colin Kaepernick, the controversial former NFL quarterback who set off public outcry in 2016 when he took a knee for the national anthem, is reuniting with Jim Harbaugh. Kaepernick has been named the honorary captain for Saturday’s spring football game at Michigan (Noon, Big Ten Network), the program announced late Wednesday. To go along with the announcement, Michigan posted photos of Kaepernick (holding his own No. 7 Michigan jersey) with Harbaugh, with quarterback Cade McNamara and one of him speaking to the team after practice. “You got to listen to people and really hear what they’re saying,” Harbaugh told friend and consultant Jed Hughes on a podcast.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. — The biggest question facing Michigan football this offseason no longer has to do with the quarterback position. Where’s the pass rush going to come from? “Yes, we would like to generate more production from the inside,” Mike Elston, Michigan’s first-year defensive line coach, told reporters on Tuesday. A competent defensive line and advantageous pass rush can make a lot of average players on the back end look good. While guys like Morris and Upshaw are the obvious targets, it’s going to have to come from guys up and down the line.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. — Jim Harbaugh has preached collaboration among his coaches for years now at Michigan, and the 2022 season is going to be no different on offense. This year, Moore — who earned the co-coordinator title last year, but didn’t call any plays — will tag team everything with Weiss, Michigan’s quarterbacks coach, to help revamp the Wolverines’ offense. “Just because we know each other,” said Moore, Michigan’s offensive line coach, told reporters last Wednesday. “When you watch the tape, the first thing that you’d say is, ‘Wow, that is a great offense,’” Weiss said. “We set records and for Michigan, it was a historically great offense.

As Michigan’s football team nears the half-way mark of spring practice, there’s a growing belief that McCarthy — limited with an undisclosed injury to his right throwing shoulder — will be full-go by the time fall camp kicks off in early August. He’s rehabbing, he’s doing what he’s supposed to do,” quarterbacks coach and recently promoted co-offensive coordinator Matt Weiss told reporters on Wednesday. “Which is the smart thing to do, to make sure a small problem doesn’t become a big problem,” Weiss said. “He’s in team drills — full team drills at times. However, Weiss said, there’s a belief that McCarthy could be back in a full-time capacity, throwing and all, by the start of fall camp.

ANN ARBOR – It wasn’t long into Mazi Smith’s Michigan career before he learned about the business side of college football. Talking to reporters inside Schembechler Hall this week, Smith said nothing surprises him anymore about the perpetual coaching carousel in the sport. So as Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh generated headlines throughout the offseason with his flirtation with the NFL, Smith tuned out the noise and focused on improving himself. I want Coach Harbaugh to be here and he here, but everybody got to make the best decision for themself. Players will come up to you and they’ve got a smile on their face: ‘What’s up, coach?

ANN ARBOR, Mich. — With the Michigan quarterback competition atop of everyone’s mind this offseason, Cade McNamara did his best this week to assure anyone listening that he knows where he stands. “I’m a Big Ten championship starting quarterback,” McNamara said. Which leaves McNamara plenty of time this offseason to reclaim his starting role. “I feel really healthy and really energized.”Having that experience as Michigan’s starter has helped off the field, too. His six interceptions tied for the fewest among conference starting quarterbacks, a symptom of his knack for taking care of the football and Michigan’s run-heavy game plans.

The quarterback situations for both Michigan and Michigan State appear to be promising heading into 2022 and beyond. ESPN released its top 25 future quarterback power rankings Thursday, and the Wolverines and Spartans both are in the top 15 after not cracking the top 25 in 2021. The rankings are based on projections for programs’ starters and the depth behind them over the next three seasons. The Wolverines, who return their top two quarterbacks in redshirt junior Cade McNamara and sophomore J.J. McCarthy, check in at No. “If he can improve his accuracy a touch, Michigan State should be very productive on offense again, even after losing running back Kenneth Walker III, the Doak Walker Award winner,” Rittenberg wrote.

But All wasn’t the only tight end to contribute last year. And that’s where Michigan’s depth at tight end played such a big role in 2021. Jim Harbaugh wasn’t afraid to go with a jumbo package, with a sixth offensive lineman and extra tight end. Also of note: The group has a new position coach this year, a familiar face in former Michigan offensive tackle Grant Newsome. Given the strength of the tight ends and the returning crop of bodies up front, Michigan figures to be exceptionally strong (and deep) up front in 2022.

So had Dylan McCaffrey, another promising high school quarterback Harbaugh had recruited. For the first time, McNamara and Michigan had to throw their way to a win — and they were able to. Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9) escapes a diving tackle by Western Michigan linebacker Corvin Moment (20) in the fourth quarter of their college football game at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor, on Saturday, September 4, 2021. Now, the question everyone wants an answer to: Where does the Michigan coaching staff stand on McNamara and McCarthy? It would also give the staff some additional time and live game reps to let McNamara and McCarthy duke it out against real competition.

Which brings us to this piece, on Jan. 26, with a good six weeks (at least) until the start of spring practice — the biggest questions facing Michigan football this offseason …1. Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy looks for a receiver during the first half against Michigan State at Spartan Stadium in East Lansing on October 30, 2021.Neil Blake/MLive.comBut will that be the case again in 2022? While the quarterback situation remains front and center, the key to determining which way to go there could hinge on what Michigan has around them. But Michigan is going to have spread that type of production out among its new-look defensive line in 2022. Speaking of the defense, Michigan played a lot of first or second-year guys on defense in 2021.

The Big Ten announced revisions to the 2022 football schedule on Wednesday (Jan. 12) for all 14 teams in the conference, including two noticeable changes for the Michigan Wolverines.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. — What an improbable season for Jim Harbaugh and Michigan football. By all accounts, it was the best season for Michigan in the Harbaugh era, one that appeared to be headed south after last year. Michigan junior quarterback Cade McNamara throws a pass during the first quarter on Saturday, Oct. 30, 2021 in East Lansing. But as Jim Harbaugh likes to say, this group left a lot of meat on the bone in 2021. (Mike Mulholland | MLive.com)Mike Mulholland | MLive.comDefensive lineCan you name a position group on this Michigan team that took a bigger jump in 2021?

But the team had several players on both sides of the ball emerge as stars, and it also had other inexperienced players step in and fill important roles. So who were the Wolverines’ top players in 2021? His run grade of 91.1 was higher than Haskins’ 89.0, but Corum struggled in pass blocking, earning just a 39.6 mark. Although he isn’t much of a running threat – he rushed for 125 yards not including sacks – he still earned a respectable running grade of 65.8. He ranked among the top three on the team among qualified players in run defense (84.9 grade), tackling (77.4) and coverage (80.4).

The Georgia Bulldogs shattered the glass slipper of the Michigan Wolverines Cinderella season with a 34-11 demolition on New Year’s Eve in the College Football Playoff semifinal at the Capital One Orange Bowl inside Hard Rock Stadium.

The College Football National Championship will be a rematch of the SEC championship after Georgia boat raced the Michigan Wolverines in the College Football Playoff semifinal at the Orange Bowl inside Hard Rock Stadium.

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — It didn’t take very long for attention to shift next year and Michigan’s pending quarterback controversy. Moments after the Wolverines’ 34-11 loss to Georgia in the Orange Bowl Friday night, Jim Harbaugh and starting quarterback Cade McNamara were fielding questions about what the plan is for 2022. McNamara is eligible to return for his redshirt junior year, and with a 12-2 record as starter, while J.J. McCarthy — the highly touted former five-star recruit — is set to return as a sophomore. McCarthy took over at quarterback late in Friday night’s game, after McNamara (11-19, 106 yards, 2 INTs) was sacked for a fourth time and fumbled the football. The Michigan coach made a point of saying he’d answer the question, shielding McNamara from the awkward task of having to address the topic.

Stetson Bennett threw three touchdown passes, Nakobe Dean led an angry Georgia defense and the third-ranked Bulldogs returned to their dominant ways, beating No. 2 Michigan 34-11 in the Orange Bowl to advance to the College Football Playoff championship.

The lopsided game saw the Bulldogs stretch Michigan horizontally, racking up 515 total yards, 325 of them through the air, and expose an inexperienced linebacking unit and undersized secondary. It was the first time since 2010 that Michigan allowed an opponent to score on its first four possessions. Offensively, the Wolverines’ game plan fell by the wayside after falling behind early. For the first time all season involving Michigan, there was no debate as to which team on the field was the better one. The Wolverines, meanwhile, will begin reflecting on an extraordinary season, one marked by progress, triumph and, tonight, crushing defeat.

No. 2 Michigan is the first team to reach the College Football Playoff after starting a season unranked in the AP Top 25.

And quite frankly, that’s just the way Cade McNamara wants it. Less than 12 hours after the Wolverines beat Iowa to win the Big Ten championship, McNamara was already reviewing what he did right (and wrong). McNamara dealt with sharp criticism from the fans and media early on as Michigan effectively leaned on its rushing attack to start 4-0, not his arm. But as the season went on, McNamara slowly found his footing (and a voice), quieting the doubters by rallying to beat Nebraska and posting a 383-yard, two-touchdown game in a loss to Michigan State. “We didn’t win a Big Ten championship or beat Ohio State,” McNamara told reporters on Wednesday.

The Michigan Wolverines are looking to beat the Georgia Bulldogs in the Capital One Orange Bowl on New Year’s Eve and advance to their first National Championship game in over 20 years.

Jim Harbaugh leaned on advice from his brother nearly a year ago when he was looking for a new defensive coordinator at Michigan and ended up hiring Baltimore Ravens linebackers coach Mike Macdonald.

DANIA BEACH, Fla. – Michigan’s preparation for the Orange Bowl on Friday is continuing to ramp up. This time, they practiced under the lights at the practice facility of Inter Miami CF, a Major League Soccer team located in Fort Lauderdale. Practices are closed to media, but the Orange Bowl staff is providing photos and videos of team events. “I think, so far, this week has been good,” Michigan quarterback Cade McNamara told reporters Wednesday. Josh Gattis adjusts play calls to personnel, creating a winning formula for MichiganMichigan RB Blake Corum ‘finally back,’ recovered ahead of Orange Bowl

DANIA BEACH, Fla. – Michigan’s Cade McNamara and Georgia’s Stetson Bennett are slated to start at quarterback when the two teams take the field for Friday night’s Orange Bowl in South Florida. The Wolverines are on a five-game win streak and have scored more than 40 points in each of their past three. “The reason Stetson Bennett plays is we think he gives us the best chance to win,” Monken said. Bennett, like McCarthy, is more of a threat in the run game, gaining 311 yards on the ground this season. “I don’t really care what anybody else says.

The Michigan football team stuck to the plan this week, opting to arrive in sunny south Florida a day earlier than the Orange Bowl had scheduled. “Blue skies; pretty nice,” head coach Jim Harbaugh told an Orange Bowl official after stepping off the plane to sunshine and temperatures in the mid-70s. You get to entertain America on the 31st.”Georgia will arrive in Miami on Sunday evening, a day after Michigan. “I’m looking forward to practice,” Harbaugh said. “Get on some grass and get acclimated to the climate.”Then it’s the game Friday night at the 65,000-seat Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, home to the NFL’s Miami Dolphins and University of Miami football football team.

The matchup between the similarly eerie bluebloods will be ratings galore as Michigan has had some of the highest-rated games on television this year.

Tom Brady is launching a new apparel brand next month, and he’s turned to a current Michigan quarterback to help promote it. The Wolverines’ Cade McNamara has inked an endorsement deal with “BRADY,” the future Hall of Fame quarterback’s namesake brand set to launch on Jan. 12, the company (and Brady himself) announced Thursday morning. The clothing line plans to first launch online via the BRADY brand website, then expand to Nordstrom’s website a week later, on Jan. 19. Michigan plays Georgia in the Orange Bowl on Dec. 31 (7:30 p.m., ESPN). The Reno, Nev., native has inked previous NIL deals before, including one with Los Angeles, Calif.-based cryptocurrency company Coinbase, but never one this prominent.

Hassan Haskins ran for two second-half touchdowns and broke a school record as No. 2 Michigan captured its first Big Ten title in 17 years and a probable playoff berth with a 42-3 rout over No. 15 Iowa.

A day after Aidan Hutchinson was named Big Ten defensive player of the year, two of his teammates on the other side of the ball were recognized for their standout play. Running back Hassan Haskins and offensive lineman Andrew Stueber were named first-team all-conference selections for the 2021 season, it was announced Wednesday. His 1,232 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns ranked second in the Big Ten behind Michigan State’s Kenneth Walker III, who was named running back of the year. Stroud won awards for Big Ten offensive player, quarterback and freshman of the year awards. Michigan offensive players to earn all-Big Ten honors:Hassan Haskins — first-team running back (media/coaches)Andrew Stueber — first-team offensive lineman (media)Ryan Hayes — second-team offensive lineman (coaches)Zak Zinter — second-team offensive lineman (media)Andrew Vastardis — second-team offensive lineman (media)Cade McNamara — third-team quarterback (coaches/media)Blake Corum — third-team running back (media)

There’s a reason why junior Mike Sainristil has played more than all but one receiver this season. Henning was able to turn the corner and pick up 9 yards thanks to a block from Sainristil. Other than just being just an awesome football player, he’s a really positive energy in the locker room. What he brings to us as an offense is, he’s a receiver who’s playing to block. He’s a great player and as his role continues to grow.

ANN ARBOR – Midway through third quarter against Ohio State on Saturday, Michigan head coach trotted out true freshman quarterback J.J. McCarthy on the second play of a pivotal drive. Starter Cade McNamara reentered the game on next play and connected with receiver Mike Sainristil for a 34-yard gain off a flea-flicker. Saturday against the Buckeyes, McCarthy played just six snaps but was the Wolverines’ top-graded offensive player by Pro Football Focus. “Both great players, both care a tremendous amount about the team,” Harbaugh said Sunday. “But talk about a guy mature beyond his years, that’s J.J. He’s a great asset to this team.

AAPD responded to a large amount of calls related to inclement weather on Saturday.

Conference champions will be crowned, bowl selection pecking orders will be locked in and more clarity will emerge about which teams will and won’t be among the four picked for the College Football Playoff.

Maybe Saturday’s game wasn’t that far-fetched, but Michigan’s recent losing skid to rival Ohio State had many wondering when the Wolverines would score their next victory. As fans poured out onto the Michigan Stadium field following Michigan’s historic 42-27 win, players watched the stampede around them. A road loss to Michigan State dampened those postseason hopes on Oct. 30, but Michigan rattled off three straight wins — including another critical road game, at Penn State — ahead of Saturday’s top-5 clash with Ohio State. But we were about it today.”More: For the first time in forever, Ohio State feels pain of a Michigan loss: ‘It’s a failure’Michigan’s victory not only snapped the dreadful losing streak to Ohio State, but it ended a Big Ten championship drought that goes all the way back to 2004. “You know, it’s just an honor to be part of this 2021 Michigan football team.

To get there, Michigan stuck to its game plan that has worked for most of the season. Long, sustaining drives on the ground fueled an offense that totaled 487 yards, led by running back Hassan Haskins (169 yards, 5 TDs). A 10-play, 75-yard touchdown drive got the Wolverines on the scoreboard first, highlighted by a creative 14-yard carry by receiver A.J. Smith-Njigba (127 yards) and Olave (119 yards) both had big days, but were never able to break off long, explosive plays. Harbaugh said over the summer that his team was going to “beat Ohio State or die tryin’.” The offseason changes worked, and Michigan will now be considered among college football’s elite.

Second-ranked Ohio State plays at No. 6 Michigan on Saturday with high stakes.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. — Cade McNamara will have an opportunity this Saturday that no Michigan quarterback has been able to accomplish since Denard Robinson. The Wolverines’ eight-game losing streak to Ohio State dates back to 2012, when Devin Gardner got his first taste of the rivalry. Gardner would go on to lose to the Buckeyes three straight years, a transcendent period that saw Ohio State gain control in the yearly series.

This year’s version of The Game could hardly be bigger.

The stakes are high for this year's version of The Game.

— Before Michigan even took the field Saturday afternoon, Jim Harbaugh and his players knew the deal. Michigan State was on the proverbial ropes, taking one knockout blow after another en route to an ugly 56-7 loss to Ohio State, delivering the Wolverines exactly what they needed. “We were hoping (Michigan State would lose) — and now that we got the opportunity … this game is going to influence the season and really show how far this team can go. Signs began appearing inside the football building with Ohio State on them. It’s why the 57-year-old head coach appeared unfazed over the summer when he was peppered with questions about the Ohio State rivalry.

No. 6 Michigan stayed put in the rankings after its 21-17 win at Penn State last week.

While Michigan is thinking about it's upcoming showdown with Ohio State the Wolverines can ill afford to overlook this weekend's matchup versus Maryland.

Even Maryland coach Michael Locksley seems to understand that No. 8 Michigan has bigger games on the horizon than this weekend's matchup with his Terrapins.

The Wolverine Confidential crew devotes some time to the Buckeyes, what with The Game on deck. But first, the Michigan football team must travel to face a dangerous -- at least offensively -- Maryland team. The football talk is bookended by hoops and hockey. What went wrong for the Wolverines down the stretch? We close the episode by discussing the Michigan hockey team, which recently recaptured its No.

But there was a time earlier this season when Michigan offensive coordinator Josh Gattis was worried about his starting quarterback. It wasn’t flashy enough, they said, and McNamara wasn’t stuffing the stat sheet. And for a coaching staff and program desperate to collect wins and build momentum after a disastrous 2020 season, McNamara has been the perfect player at the right time. Because when folks on the outside weren’t sticking up for him, McNamara had others inside the building who were. “When you put so much pressure on a certain kid, regardless of what they do they can’t be right,” Gattis said.

The jackets look like something a factory worker would wear, and have become a status symbol of sorts around Michigan’s football building in recent years. But Harbaugh isn’t here to discuss the future at the quarterback position. “I mean, everybody rents that position,” Harbaugh said. There’s still another big stage to be had (next Saturday, Nov. 27, Michigan hosts Ohio State); an opportunity for McNamara to cement himself as a real contender to be the future of Michigan football. But this much we do: Writing off Cade McNamara from anything has turned out to be an awful position to take.

Michigan’s annual end-of-season showdown with archrival Ohio State is next week, Nov. 27. “We would never overlook anybody.”“Every team in the Big Ten is a respectable team,” said junior defensive lineman Christopher Hinton. We can’t look ahead.”Those players, along with junior quarterback Cade McNamara, also spoke on Monday about the “championship qualities” this Michigan team possesses. ET, Big Ten Network) and close the regular season by hosting Ohio State on Nov. 27. More Michigan football content:Michigan’s Aidan Hutchinson earns Big Ten player of the week honorsNew bowl projections have Michigan seeing roses againSnap counts, PFF grades that stood out from Michigan’s win vs. Penn StateTakeaways, observations from Michigan’s win at Penn State

An Ohio State win and a Michigan win at 5-5 Maryland means the Buckeyes and Wolverines will meet in Ann Arbor the following week with everything on the line.

Michigan recovered after a slow start to beat Penn State 21-17 on Saturday. PFF grades every player on every play in multiple facets of the game, such as passing, rushing, receiving, pass blocking, run defense, etc. With that in mind, here are Michigan snap counts from Saturday’s win and key takeaways from PFF’s grades. His 86.6 grade in the passing game led the Wolverines as he had a team-high five catches for 45 yards. Buy Wolverines gear: Fanatics, Nike, Amazon, LidsBuy Wolverines tickets: StubHub, SeatGeek, TicketmasterStream Wolverines games live: fuboTV, ESPN+, Sling

Michigan is leaving Penn State with a 21-17 victory, thanks to a late touchdown and key defensive stand. James Franklin explains Penn State’s fake field goal vs. Michigan: ‘I’d make the call again’ (Sporting News)Michigan Flips the Script in Critical Win Over Penn State: ‘If That’s Not Grit, What Is?’ (Sports Illustrated)No. 23 Penn State falls short in upset bid of No. 9 Michigan, 21-17: game balls, turning points and more (PennLive)Michigan vs. Penn State score, takeaways: No. 23 Penn State 21-17 (Associated Press)Jim Harbaugh, Michigan are living on the edge, but winning time vs. Penn State was different (The Athletic)

He was sore and wanted to test it out on the field first before deciding whether to gut it out. All scored the go-ahead touchdown with 3:29 left in Saturday’s 21-17 win over Penn State, flipping momentum and keeping the Wolverines’ Big Ten hopes alive. The Nittany Lions went from trailing by eight points to up three, thanks to a 31-yard field goal with 5:55 to play, catching Michigan off guard. But nothing went for a big gain, prompting Penn State linebacker Ellis Brooks, described by All as “No. McNamara said afterward that Penn State had shown man-coverage in big-game situations like these in the past and praised Michigan offensive coordinator Josh Gattis for recognizing it.

Cade McNamara threw a 47-yard touchdown pass to tight end Erick All with 3:29 left and No. 9 Michigan stayed in the Big Ten championship race, rallying past tricky No. 23 Penn State 21-17.

Michigan football overcame a late blown lead against Penn State on Saturday in Happy Valley, bouncing back to earn a massive victory and keep its Big Ten title hopes alive.

Michigan came prepared and, more importantly, ready to play Penn State amid cold, blustery conditions at Beaver Stadium. The game-winning score came moments after Penn State appeared to seize momentum, too, turning a McNamara fumble into a go-ahead field goal with 5:55 to play. Both went unblocked during the game and became difficult to contain, suffocating Clifford and the Penn State offense at times. The Nittany Lions mustered just 109 yards rushing, led by Keyvone Lee’s 20 carries for 88 yards. Penn State mustered just one touchdown in four red-zone trips.

Michigan coughed up a 16-point second-half lead and dropped a closely contested game, with some controversy, to in-state rival Michigan State. But for those goals to remain intact, a win on Saturday at Penn State (Noon, ABC) is a must. With the game less than 24 hours away, here are four key questions facing Michigan. More: Michigan vs. Penn State — score predictions from MLive’s beat writers3. Last year, amid struggles in the secondary, Michigan did a great job of limiting Penn State receiver Jahan Dotson.

“You ask them and they tell ya,” head coach Jim Harbaugh said Monday night on the “Inside Michigan Football” radio show. More: With Blake Corum’s status unclear, RB depth takes a hit for Michigan“Some guys just have a higher pain threshold and can operate, function and do their job,” Harbaugh said. We play J.J. in circumstances — and have been all season long.”More: Jim Harbaugh — Big Ten admitted ‘mistake’ overturning TD in Michigan-MSU gameMichigan (8-1, 5-1 Big Ten) remains confident in the job McNamara has done so far this season. We want to work as hard as him.”Harbaugh touted his “high pain threshold,” calling it “impressive.” And the good news? “It’s nothing that he can make worse,” Harbaugh said of the injury.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. — Michigan will have starting tight end Erick All in uniform and available tonight against Indiana. Live updates: Michigan looks to bounce back vs. IndianaMcNamara appears like he’ll have all of his primary weapons available tonight as Michigan looks to get back on track. Meanwhile, the Wolverines will be without third-string running back Donovan Edwards (undisclosed injury) for a second straight game, a team spokesman confirmed to MLive. If you’re wondering about the quarterback situation, all four are in uniform tonight, including starter Cade McNamara. Look for him to get the start for the ninth straight game.

Michigan’s drive for perfection ended in agonizing fashion. Coach Jim Harbaugh says he doesn’t believe players will dwell on the second-half collapse.

Michigan’s drive for perfection ended in agonizing fashion.

Kenneth Walker ran for 197 yards and five touchdowns, lifting No. 8 Michigan State to a 37-33 comeback win over No. 6 Michigan on Saturday.

The spotlight shines on the Big Ten this week with three games sure to effect the division races and possibly the College Football Playoff.

Is this year’s Michigan football team actually different than others? Cade McNamara said it best after the Nebraska game.

Will the passing game be Michigan’s downfall? That question has echoed through the Big House walls for the better part of two months. This week against Michigan State, we’re probably going to find out.

Michigan football took care of business against Northwestern to set up the unbeaten in-state matchup everyone has been craving in East Lansing.

Blake Corum and Hassan Haskins combined for 229 yards rushing and four touchdowns, carrying No. 6 Michigan to a 33-7 win over Northwestern.

The second half of Michigan’s schedule is among the toughest in college football, but it begins Saturday with a less heralded matchup against Northwestern.

Jake Moody hit a 39-yard field goal with 1;24 remaining to lift No. 9 Michigan over upset-minded Nebraska 32-29.

Ninth-ranked Michigan looks to keep its roll going with a defense yet to give up more than 17 points and the confidence it can achieve championship goals after falling short in previous seasons under Jim Harbaugh.

When Michigan football lost No. 1 wide receiver Ronnie Bell for the season, there were a handful of candidates to assume a larger role.

College football fans can squabble about the strength of this year’s Wisconsin team all they want, but that won’t change the fact that Michigan just earned perhaps the most impressive win of the Jim Harbaugh era.

Cornelius Johnson caught both of Cade McNamara’s touchdown passes and No. 14 Michigan remained unbeaten with a 38-17 victory over Wisconsin, which lost starting quarterback Graham Mertz to a chest injury.

The University of Michigan defeated University of Wisconsin–Madison Saturday afternoon.

Undefeated Michigan hopes to reignite its ground game against the nation's top-ranked run defense when the 14th-ranked Wolverines look for their first victory at Wisconsin in 20 years on Saturday.

Michigan is seeking to win at Camp Randall Stadium for the first time since a 20-17 triumph in 2001 when the 14th-ranked Wolverines visit Wisconsin.

Michigan football survived its first four games without much of a passing attack, but that plan will have to change if the Wolverines hope to move the ball against Wisconsin.

Welcome to the “Michigan played poorly but still managed to win” portion of the college football season. Glad you could make it!

The University of Michigan Wolverines defeated Rutgers University Scarlet Knights at the Big House Saturday.

Michigan and Rutgers took care of business during the non-conference portion of their schedules.

Blake Corum rushed for 123 yards and three touchdowns as No. 25 Michigan routed Northern Illinois 63-10 on Saturday.

Michigan football is coming off a dominant win over a Power Five program and fans are still angry. Oh yeah, football season is most definitely back.

Blake Corum sprinted for a 67-yard touchdown to give Michigan a double-digit lead in the second quarter, one play after Jim Harbaugh called for a fake punt and the Wolverines pulled away to beat Washington 31-10.

Even as it prepared for its season opener, Washington had an eye on its Week 2 matchup at Michigan.

Seven years into the Jim Harbaugh era, it’s pretty easy to see what the narrative will be whether Michigan football wins or loses the Washington game on Saturday night.

A total of 18 players made their Michigan football debut last weekend against Western Michigan. How many of those newcomers will continue to contribute for the rest of the season?

The University of Michigan opens its football season against a program with zero success against the Wolverines.

Michigan football is about to kick off the most important chapter of the Jim Harbaugh era, hosting Western Michigan on Saturday at the Big House.

Michigan will soon get a chance to accomplish something it failed to do last season.