What can we expect from the Michigan football team for the 2026/27 season? Coming off of two disappointing seasons and a controversial scandal with former head coach Sherrone Moore, many people are questioning where the football program stands.
With the arrival of new head coach Kyle Whittingham, Michigan’s football program is expected to rise back to the top.
“I think Whittingham will bring a structure and discipline that will be visible on defense,” says Skyline SLC principal and former Michigan football player Andre Criswell. “Hopefully he has a really good staff that will develop the quarterback position, Offensive Line and Defense.”
Whittingham had tons of success at his former job as the head coach of the University of Utah for over 20 years. According to the University of Utah, he won 11 post season bowl games and he won 2 conference titles in one of the most prestigious NCAA football conferences, the Pac-12. Whittingham is one of the best when it comes to coaching discipline and toughness, both of which are staples to being a strong team in the Big Ten.
According to ESPN, Underwood was the number one recruit in the class of 2025. He has been hyped by coaches to be one of the next great Michigan quarterbacks, surrounded with even more hype to his name than the likes of Tom Brady or JJ McCarthy. Head Coach Kyle Whittingham said that “he kinda reminds me of Cam Newton.” Despite the excitement, his freshman year at Michigan was underwhelming. The offense was subpar with little to no threat, especially passing the ball and fans weren’t happy with his performance. However, with Underwood returning for his sophomore season he has been getting high praise from coaches throughout the program.
“I want to see us actually use Bryce Underwood to his full potential,” says life-long fan Richard Epstein (‘29).
Even though Michigan had a disappointing season, their young team contains many underclassman standouts. Marsh was the leading wide receiver on the team and showed a lot of promise to be one of the better receivers Michigan has had in years. Underwood and Marsh’s connection will be key to the team’s success this year, but they really are going to need help on the defensive side of the ball as well.
“I think Andrew Marsh is going to have a breakout season this year,” says avid fan Charlie Wilcox (‘29).
“I also want to see the defense remain dominant especially in the big games,” says Criswell.
A staple to the Michigan football program has always been toughness, especially on the defensive side of the ball. Michigan’s defense was decent last year but the unit wasn’t the best in big games, as they gave up 24 points to Oklahoma, 31 to USC and 41 in their bowl game vs Texas. Whittingham’s toughness and discipline on the defensive side of the ball should impact the team immediately.
With Kyle Whittingham’s experience, leadership, and toughness, along with the development of underclassmen and key returning players, fans are excited to see what is next for the historic program.
