Breaking down why Michigan could disappoint in 2024 season

The 2023 season was one for the books for Michigan. The Wolverines went a perfect 15-0 to win the national championship – their first since 1997.

This offseason saw plenty of change, though. Most notably, Jim Harbaugh is gone, heading to Los Angeles to coach the Chargers. That opened the door for Sherrone Moore to take over as head coach after a four-game stint as acting head coach while Harbaugh was suspended this past season.

But the changes don’t stop with the coaches. Eighteen Michigan players headed to the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis – headlined by quarterback J.J. McCarthy, defensive back Mike Sainristil and running back Blake Corum. While some notable faces return, including Donovan Edwards and Colston Loveland, it will still be a tough task for the Wolverines to repeat in 2024.

In fact, the AP’s Ralph Russo wondered if the expectations around UM should be tempered a bit.

“I understand the expectations will be lowered,” Russo told Andy Staples on Andy Staples On3. “But I still think that they will be a top-10 preseason team. Maybe back end of the top 10, but they will still be a top 10. And I could really see Michigan going 8-4 next year. Between the coaching change and all the players being lost, that’s a rough combination.”

In addition to so much turnover on the roster and coaching staff, Russo also noted Michigan’s schedule. The Wolverines have Texas, USC and Oregon on the docket, not to mention the season finale against a new-look Ohio State team.

As they get ready for the season, Russo said the biggest question Moore and the staff have to answer is who the quarterback will be. That will be a key factor in figuring out if Michigan will be able to top its 9.5 win total, according to FanDuel.

“I just think the the even compared to the lowered expectations of Michigan – and I haven’t seen their win total … I could see them being like eight wins, and maybe if they get a little unlucky. Who’s playing quarterback for Michigan, Andy?” Russo said. “Maybe even a situation where they win seven games, which of course, is not going to be a great look for Sherrone Moore. But I think people have to look at the context and understand all the turnover there and compounded with a tougher Big Ten.”

Michigan is getting ready to begin spring practice, and the season opener against Fresno State is scheduled for Aug. 31.