Michigan 2023 football squad was a powerhouse built on talent, discipline, and a relentless drive for success. With a dynamic offense and a suffocating defense, the Wolverines cemented their place in college football history. Let take a closer look at their championship-winning lineup.
Offensive Starters
Quarterback: J.J. McCarthy“ A first-round NFL draft pick known for his poise and ability to deliver in high-pressure moments.
Running Back: Blake Corum Michigan’ s all-time rushing touchdown leader (56), including an incredible 27 scores in 2023.
Wide Receivers:
Roman Wilson“ The team’ s most explosive playmaker in the passing game.
Tyler Morris “ Led Michigan in receiving yards post-2023 departures, now set to play for Indiana.
Cornelius Johnson “ Delivered two of his career’s biggest plays in the 2022 win over Ohio State.
Tight End: Colston Loveland “ Ranked second in receiving yards in 2023, later becoming Michigan primary passing target despite missing games.
Offensive Line:
LT: LaDarius Henderson “ An Arizona State transfer who became a First-Team All-Big Ten selection.
LG: Trevor Keegan “ A two-time All-Big Ten honoree with 39 career starts.
C: Drake Nugent “ A Stanford transfer and Rimington Trophy finalist in 2023.
RG: Karsen Barnhart “ Transitioned from right tackle to right guard following an injury to Zak Zinter.
LRT: Trente Jones l“ Took over at right tackle in Michigan’s final championship push.
With a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars, Michigan’s offense had the firepower to dominate on the ground and through the air.
Defensive Starters
Defensive End: Jaylen Harrell “ Led the team in sacks (6.5) and tackles for loss (9) in 2023.
Defensive Tackles:
Mason Graham “ Arguably Michigan’s best defensive player, with top-five NFL Draft potential in 2025.
Kris Jenkins Jr. / Kenneth Grant “ Jenkins, a 2024 second-round NFL pick, was a run-stopping force, while Grant has first-round draft potential.
Defensive End: Braiden McGregor “ Set career highs in sacks (4.5) and tackles for loss (9).
Linebackers:
Michael Barrett “ A versatile, undersized linebacker who finished second in team tackles.
Junior Colson “ A tackling machine who later reunited with Jim Harbaugh on the LA Chargers.
Cornerbacks:
Will Johnson “ A five-star recruit who quickly became Michigan’s top corner.
Mike Sainristil “ The emotional leader of the defense, transitioning from receiver to lockdown corner.
Josh Wallace “ A UMass transfer who seamlessly fit in as the team’s third cornerback.
Safeties:
Keon Sabb” Came up big in the College Football Playoff title game, recording six tackles against Washington.
Rod Moore “ Sealed Michigan’s regular-season victory over Ohio State with a crucial interception.
With a defense that blended experience, raw talent, and relentless energy, Michigan had all the ingredients for a championship run.
This lineup not only defined a season but also left an enduring legacy in Wolverines history.
