The Michigan Insider

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Michigan vs. Oklahoma preview: Behind Enemy Lines Sep 04, 2025

Show notes

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.

Michigan defensive breakdown with Vance Bedford (week 1) - New Mexico recap; Oklahoma preview Sep 04, 2025

Show notes

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.

Michigan offensive breakdown with Al Borges (week 1) - New Mexico recap; Oklahoma preview Sep 03, 2025

Show notes

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.

Michigan-New Mexico recap: Takeaways from the Wolverines' season-opening win Sep 03, 2025

Show notes

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.

Behind The Uniform with Ernest Hausmann - Ready to star & to lead; Ready to do whatever UM needs Aug 30, 2025

Show notes

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.

Behind the Uniform with TJ Guy: Finally his time to shine Aug 30, 2025

Show notes

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.

The Michigan Insider LIVE with Warde Manuel on NCAA penalty, Bryce Underwood, & more Aug 29, 2025

Show notes

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.

Michigan-New Mexico preview: What do the Wolverines want to show in 2025 season opener? Aug 28, 2025

Show notes

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.

Behind The Uniform with Cole Sullivan - Body transformation has soph. LB tracking as key contributor Aug 28, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Behind the Uniform - Season 3 - we feature sophomore linebacker Cole Sullivan. The Keystone State star discusses his journey from an under-the-radar recruit to a player who's expected to be a key contributor for the Wolverines this season. He recounts his recruitment, highlighting Michigan's early interest, and his decision to attend despite state school pressure. Sullivan details his physical transformation, now standing at 6-3 and 230 lbs., and his improved performance on the field. He reflects on the challenges of staff turnover, why he stuck with Michigan anyway, and discusses his chemistry with the current staff. Attention shifts to insights gleaned from Behind the Uniform's financial literacy boot camp. Marshall 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 Sullivan looking ahead to the season and sharing his thoughts on the depth and potential of the linebacker group, the defense, and the entire team.

Behind the Uniform with Mason Curtis - Michigan's biggest DB ready bigger role Aug 27, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Behind the Uniform - Season 3, sophomore safety Mason Curtis is featured as an emerging talent within Michigan's secondary. Curtis reflects on his breakout freshman season and outlines his aspirations for the future. He notes his physical progress, currently standing at 6-4 and weighing 213 lbs., and emphasizes his adaptability to various coaching styles and positions. Curtis attributes his continued commitment to Michigan, following Coach Jim Harbaugh's transition to the professional ranks, to the trust he placed in the coaching staff. The episode also examines key takeaways from Behind the Uniform's financial literacy boot camp. Curtis discusses valuable insights gained from the "Playbook for Prosperity" seminar hosted by the University of Michigan Credit Union, highlighting the importance of budgeting, as well as guidance on long-term financial planning provided by David Himich of The Himich Group at Morgan Stanley. Returning to football-related discussions, Curtis elaborates on his versatility and ambitions to contribute across multiple defensive roles, drawing inspiration from prominent players such as Isaiah Simmons and Kyle Hamilton. He concludes by expressing confidence in both the team's depth and versatility—particularly within the defensive backfield—and shares his expectations for a distinguished season for the Wolverines.

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