Big Ten Network Analyst Has Stern Warning For Michigan Football's Early Season Opponents

Michigan football finished 20th in the NCAA total rushing yards last season, a ranking that belied the Wolverines' strength up front, which they showed in a dominating 34-13 National Championship Game win over the Washington Huskies.

This season, the Wolverines will be forced to replace virtually their entire offensive line with part-time starting left tackle Myles Hinton the most recognizable returnee.

On Tuesday, longtime Big Ten Network analyst Howard Griffith revealed a warning for Michigan's upcoming opponents as he detailed the imposing strength of Coach Sherrone Moore's replacement offensive line troops.

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"I think they're going to be right back where they should be as a dominant O-line," Griffith, the former Illinois Fighting Illini running back and NFL fullback said.

The Wolverines will start at least four neophytes along the line but many of them have several games of experience under their belts including Northwestern transfer Josh Priebe and holdover Giovanni El-Hadi, a guard and former four-star prospect who said recently that he's ready to become a "dog" up front.

Griffith added that he believes likely starting quarterback Alex Orji could be a quality performer for the Wolverines' offense who could help the Wolverines beat strong early season opponents USC and Texas.

"I like what Orji brings to the table," Griffith said. "I think a quarterback (like that) gives you the ability to have that mobility (that) is going to give you an opportunity (to win) against teams like that."

"Does he have to continue to grow as a passer? No doubt about it. But I want him on the field so he can continue to gain experience."

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