Wolverines Optimistic Despite Injury Challenges Ahead of Northwestern Game

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Michigan head coach Sherrone Moore provided a positive injury update during his Monday press conference, as his team recovers from a bye week. The 18th-ranked Wolverines are looking to bounce back after a banged-up performance in their Nov. 1 victory against Purdue.

In that game, Michigan lost key linebackers Jimmy Rolder and Cole Sullivan, and Jaishawn Barham left after just two snaps. After a break for rest, Moore expressed encouragement about their progress ahead of Saturday’s matchup against Northwestern at Wrigley Field.

“Getting guys healthy, that was the number one goal,” Moore said. “Obviously, we wanted to do things to get better, but trying to get guys back was essential.” He noted the improvement of the injured players, stating, “Feel good about where Cole is. We’ll see where Jimmy is, we’ll see where Jaishawn is.”

Star running back Justice Haynes continues to be listed as “week-to-week” due to a right foot injury that has kept him sidelined since late in the game against Michigan State on Oct. 25. Tight end Hogan Hansen and safety Rod Moore have also been nursing injuries but may return soon. “Hogan feels like he could be back this week, could be next week,” Moore commented.

Regarding other offensive players, both top receiver Donaven McCulley and tight end Marlin Klein, who suffered injuries in the last game, are expected to play against Northwestern. Klein expressed confidence, saying, “I feel 100%. I’m ready to play the next three games at 100%.”

Moore also emphasized the importance of the bye week. “The guys that were playing are getting into game 10 of the season,” he said. “Keeping those guys healthy and getting their bodies back was vital for us.”

This game against Northwestern marks a crucial point in the season, with Michigan still vying for a Big Ten championship and a spot in the College Football Playoff. As the team navigates injuries, it will look for contributions from depth players to bolster their roster.

Several players are set to play key roles in the coming weeks, including Bryson Kuzdzal, who has emerged as a backup for Jordan Marshall, and Tre Williams, who has shown promise as a dominant defensive tackle. The Wolverines aim to find their rhythm and capitalize on their opportunities as they head into final stretch of the season.