3. Who returns, and who still misses time with an injury?
While Wisconsin is dealing with multiple COVID-19 issues, Michigan is dealing with players battling injuries. Against Minnesota, Michigan took a minor hit when safety Daxton Hill was hurt and kicker Quinn Nordin missed the game with an undisclosed issue. Both returned the following week, but against Michigan State, the injuries piled high. Viper Michael Barrett, offensive tackle Jalen Mayfield, linebacker Cam McGrone and others went down injured. Some returned to the game, and some didn’t.
Going into Indiana, Michigan got Barrett and McGrone back, but Mayfield and left tackle Ryan Hayes were out to start the game. As the game continued, Michigan lost more players on the defensive line. Defensive end Aidan Hutchinson left the game early with an ankle injury and didn’t return. His partner in crime, defensive end Kwity Paye, also left the game early with an injury and didn’t return. Even worse, backup defensive end Luiji Vilain, who replaced Hutchinson, was injured and didn’t return.
Injuries piled up against Michigan State, but they were reinforced once again against Indiana last week.
Heading into the matchup against Wisconsin, the Wolverines will need as many players as possible to return. Missing both starting tackles was huge against Indiana, and missing them again will hurt the offense. Missing both starting defensive ends will hurt the front seven. Though, the depth in that group is deep, Hutchinson and Paye being off the field is a step back for the defense.
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