ANN ARBOR, Mich. — Despite all of the struggles in the 2024 season, according to PFF, Michigan football has the best pass rush in the entire country, out of all 134 college football teams.
The Wolverines have a pass rush grade of 90.8, nearly two points ahead of South Carolina, more than five points better than Ohio State, and just leagues beyond most teams.
Of course, that comes courtesy of a front with at least two first-round NFL draft picks, if not more.
The headliners are obviously defensive tackles Mason Graham and Kenneth Grant, as well as rotational tackle Rayshaun Benny. But edge rushers Josaiah Stewart and Derrick Moore have both come into their own, as well — as has reserve TJ Guy.
As Grant sees it, the games are getting tougher as offensive lines key in on him and Graham, but that’s opening up opportunities for the guys on the edge.
“Yeah, a lot more seven-man, eight-man, nine-man protection,” Grant said. “So I mean, just trying to contain our all of our fronts, all of our edges and our D-tackles. I mean just trying to adjust (to it).”
Moore has been banged up, but is getting healthier and played at Illinois after missing the game at Washington. As he continues to improve year over year, he can’t help but praise the help that he and Stewart get by playing alongside the formidable tackles in the defensive interior.
“Of course, having them two guys in the middle it’s a blessing,” Moore said. “You can always get the one-on-one on the edge. For me and (Josaiah Stewart) it kind of takes the pressure off us. But like I said, man, those two guys right there inside are dogs, so having them two inside of you, it’s an honor.”
It will be incumbent upon the line to get pressure once again, as Michigan hosts rival MSU, with a quarterback in Aidan Chiles who can extend plays with his legs, but is also mistake-prone. The game will kick off at 7:30 p.m. EDT at The Big House on Saturday night.