The Michigan Insider

In this episode, Zach Shaw and Steve Lorenz break down the ins and outs of the Michigan football team’s 24-13 loss at Oklahoma.

They open with a look at the offensive side of the ball, where they discuss Michigan’s struggles along the offensive line, a conservative and cautious play-calling approach, a few bright spots and what to make of Bryce Underwood’s performance.

In the second half of the episode, they look at the defensive side of the ball, discussing a disappointing showing by the defensive front, mixed results in the back seven, special teams analysis and more.

In this episode, Zach Shaw and Steve Lorenz break down the Michigan football team's road trip to take on No. 18 Oklahoma, and keys for the Wolverines on both sides of the ball.

They open with a look at what Michigan’s offense needs to accomplish in the game, including withstanding the crowd noise, getting freshman Bryce Underwood comfortable, pass-blocking on the edge, establishing a run game both to the left and right and more.

In the second half of the episode, they discuss the biggest keys for the Wolverines’ defense, and how they can limit the Sooners’ new-look offense in the matchup. Along the way, they take their pick at 10 prop bets, and make their final score predictions for the game at the end.

Michigan football faces its biggest non-conference test as the Wolverines travel to Norman to square off against the Oklahoma Sooners.

What can U-M expect from the new-look Oklahoma offense and QB John Mateer? What's the plan for Cal transfer RB Jaydn Ott? And can Oklahoma's offensive line hold up against Michigan? All that, plus how Brent Venables will make life difficult for Bryce Underwood, on Behind Enemy Lines.

In this week's episode Vance and Sam discussed Michigan's defensive performance in its 34-17 victory over New Mexico, and preview the Wolverines' road matchup with no. 18 Oklahoma. Bedford praised Michigan's speed and aggression at linebacker but noted the need to build more depth at cornerback. Bedford emphasized the importance of simulated pressures to protect the secondary against Oklahoma's quarterback, John Mateer. He also mentioned the potential impact of young players like Nate Marshall and Cole Sullivan versus the Sooners, and the challenges of playing in a hostile environment in Norman. Bedford predicted a close game, ultimately favoring Michigan.

In this week's episode Al and Sam discussed Michigan's offensive performance in its 34-17 victory over New Mexico, and preview the Wolverines' road matchup with no. 18 Oklahoma. They praised Bryce Underwood’s successful debut, as Borges highlighted his footwork, throwing mechanics and timing. The discussion also focused on the balance between traditional Michigan plays and new offensive elements like RPOs, tempo, and spread principles by new offensive coordinator Chip Lindsay. Borges noted 16 RPO variations and successful stretch plays. The conversation shifts to the challenges of preparing for Oklahoma, emphasizing the need for high-percentage throws and a balanced run-pass approach. Al Borges discussed the need to utilize quarterback runs but to do so judiciously to avoid injury, suggesting no more than five to eight runs per game.

In this episode, Zach Shaw and Steve Lorenz break down the Michigan football team's 34-17 win over New Mexico to open its 2025 season.

They open with a look at the Wolverines’ offense. They break down what they saw from Bryce Underwood in his collegiate debut, what it could mean for the rest of the season, as well as the significance of some key returning pass-catchers and offensive linemen stepping up. They also discuss Justice Haynes’ star-caliber Michigan debut at running back, and why that could arguably be a bigger deal than Underwood’s debut.

In the second half of the episode, they look at some key takeaways from the defensive side of the ball. They discuss why the box score might not be as pretty as expected, but why that may not matter much moving forward. They look at New Mexico’s success on screen plays and in play-action, but also Michigan’s palpable speed and depth on defense.

They also discuss the Wolverines’ special teams blunders, Jaishawn Barham’s suspension, penalties and other observations from the season-opening win.

In this episode of Behind the Uniform - Season 3, senior linebacker Ernest Hausmann is featured. Recently named captain, Hausmann reflects on his transition from Nebraska to Michigan, detailing his decision to enter the transfer portal and join the Wolverines. He elaborates on how overcoming adversity... particularly being adopted from another country at a young age... has shaped his outlook and approach to football. Hausmann emphasizes the significant influence of those around him, especially his adoptive parents, expressing sincere gratitude for their support. He also offers key takeaways from the "Playbook for Prosperity" seminar with the University of Michigan Credit Union, underscoring the value of effective budgeting, as well as from David Himich of The Himich Group at Morgan Stanley, who spoke on long-term financial planning. The discussion then returns to football, where Hausmann describes building rapport with position coach Brian Jean-Marie and defensive coordinator Wink Martindale, his performance improvements following early-season challenges against Texas, and his emergence as a pivotal contributor to a defense that ultimately overcame Ohio State. The episode concludes with Hausmann discussing his leadership role in mentoring younger teammates and highlighting the team's commitment to preparation for the upcoming season, emphasizing their collective pursuit of high standards, robust competition, and another national championship run.

In this episode of Behind the Uniform - Season 3 - we feature senior edge TJ Guy. An expected breakout star for the Michigan defense, Guy discussed his physical transformation, starting as a raw athlete at just 230 lbs., to a more stout 250 lbs. Guy reflects on coming from an area often overlooked for football talent in the Northeast and feeling overlooked himself, and praises Michigan for looking beyond the obvious and finding hidden gems from his home region, such as Mike Sainristil, Josaiah Stewart, Zak Zinter, and Cornelius Johnson. The conversation then shifts to traits he emulates from past Michigan linemen like Aidan Hutchinson while also maintaining his own style. Guy then recounts the transition period to Wink Martindale, which was bumpy at first before meshing later on, ultimately leading to another victory over Ohio State and a successful season. Attention shifts to insights gleaned from Behind the Uniform's financial literacy boot camp. Guy shares lessons learned from the "Playbook for Prosperity" seminar with the University of Michigan Credit Union, stressing the importance of budgeting, and David Himich from The Himich Group at Morgan Stanley on long-term financial planning. The interview concludes with Guy sharing his excitement for the upcoming season and the team's potential to be special.

Michigan athletic director Warde Manuel made his way to The Michigan Insider studio Wednesday morning (8/27) for another exclusive 1-on-1 conversation with Sam Webb to share his first public reaction to the NCAA's penalty for “sign-gate” and share his initial impressions freshman quarterback Bryce Underwood. Manuel expressed frustration with the NCAA's decision to tie penalties to postseason bans and fines, calling it “antiquated.” He also mentioned ongoing internal discussions about the appeal process. Manuel highlighted the potential of an international game against Western Michigan in Germany, emphasizing the long-term financial benefits. He praised head coach Sherrone's growth and leadership and discussed Underwood’s transcendent talent.

In this episode, Zach Shaw and Steve Lorenz break down the Michigan football team's season-opener, and what to watch for from the Wolverines against New Mexico.

They open with a look at what would count as a successful weekend for Michigan's offense. They discuss their expectations for Bryce Underwood, their belief that the Wolverines should rep the passing game even with a lead and other factors to consider with the run game also having new faces leading the way.

In the second half of the episode, they look at Michigan's defense, and some of the players and position groups they are most excited to see. Along the way, they handle some subscriber-submitted prop bets, and make their final score predictions for Saturday's game.