Assessment of areas in which the Michigan Wolverines’ offense could improve in 2024

The Michigan Wolverines are believed to take a step back in 2024 due to heavy personnel turnover on offense. Statistically, there aren’t that many opportunities for the team to really move up thanks to the efficiency of JJ McCarthy and the numerous touchdowns from Blake Corum and Roman Wilson.

Still, there are some areas that could look a little different (for the better) now that Sherrone Moore is fully in control of the reins. While there are many areas that could take a step back, below are some stats that could actually improve this fall compared to last year.

Fast efficiency

It would be foolish to criticize Corum for anything, although the Michigan hero took a bit of a step back in his senior year after his injury. After posting a league-leading 6.61 YPC as an RB2 in 2021 and then a team-leading 5.92 YPC as a junior, he dropped to 4.83 YPC last year, which ranked Michigan just 52nd nationally.

That’s a bit surprising considering the team is known for running the ball, and while it ultimately didn’t hinder the offense, I think there’s still some room for improvement here. Donovan Edwards was actually less efficient than Corum in 2023, but I expect the team to put him in the best position to succeed. Add in Orji’s legs, and I think Michigan will climb up these rankings a bit.

Balanced attack

Ironically, Orji is a (much) worse passer than McCarthy, but it’s hard to imagine the Wolverines throwing even less than they did last season. In 2023, the offense ranked in the bottom 15 nationally with just 24.1 passes per game, and while that number is a little scary for Orji, I think it needs to rise out of necessity.

Michigan had so many leads that it really didn’t need to throw the ball last season. Corum is gone, though, and as good as the defense will be, it seems like even a small step back is pretty likely. Games against Texas, USC, Oregon and Ohio State will require throwing the ball, and that was a phrase rarely uttered in 2023.

Unleash Edwards

Although Edwards is known as a pass-catcher, he averaged just two catches per game last year and a fairly modest 8.3 YPC. 2023 was obviously a big step back for him by any measure, but with him being the team’s most experienced running back entering this season, it might be time for the coaches to use him more strategically.

Edwards will still see a lot of handoffs, but there are enough other backs — and maybe enough holes in the receiving corps — to see him moving throughout the formation. With Orji also at risk of running, Edwards could do a lot of damage on screens and broken plays. I see his receptions and efficiency skyrocketing this season.

Explosives

After a plethora of home runs in 2022, Michigan’s offense was much more methodical in 2023. The team ranked 77th nationally in plays of at least 30 and 40 yards and had just four plays over 50 yards all season. There wasn’t as much need for those explosive plays last year, but the 2024 offense might not be able to sustain long drives consistently.

That means Moore and Kirk Campbell will have to be ready to make some shots. Orji has a strong arm and can look to connect with speedy guys like Semaj Morgan and Tyler Morris. Look for Edwards to make some plays like he did in the National Championship Game, too. This may not be the most explosive offense in the country, but it should make a few more big plays than last season.

What do you think? Where can the offense show the most improvement this fall? Let us know in the comments below!