College football’s landscape is always shifting, and lately, it’s been almost dizzying. The transfer portal and NIL deals have changed the game in ways that probably would’ve seemed impossible just a few years back.
Michigan secondary coach LaMar Morgan has been pretty candid about these changes. He’s seen firsthand how the new rules complicate life for both players and coaches.
The Changing Landscape of College Football
With the College Football Playoff expanding and the transfer portal now a fixture, college football feels a lot more like the pros than it used to. The portal, especially, has made it easy for players to move around and chase better situations.
Some folks say it’s like free agency without rules. Coaches are left juggling team chemistry and trying to keep everyone happy, which is no small feat.
The Transfer Portal: A Double-Edged Sword
The transfer portal probably tops the list of recent changes. Players can switch schools with minimal hassle, which is great for them, but it can be a headache for coaches.
LaMar Morgan’s talked about how tricky it is to manage a roster packed with talented athletes, all hungry for immediate playing time. It’s a balancing act between being fair, staying honest, and, well, winning games.
Managing Player Expectations
Every year, coaches like Morgan welcome new recruits who expect to hit the field right away. That gets complicated when certain spots, like quarterback, are already locked down by a freshman star.
Morgan says it’s crucial to be upfront with players about where they stand. He tries to make sure everyone gets why they’re playing—or not playing—as much as they are.
The Role of Special Teams
Special teams can be a lifeline for guys not seeing much action on offense or defense. Take Elijah Dotson, for example—he shines on special teams, even if his defensive snaps are limited.
It just goes to show, there’s value in every role. Coaches want players to recognize that, even if it’s not always glamorous.
The Impact of NIL Deals
NIL deals have thrown another wrench into the works. Now, players can earn money off their name and image, which definitely affects where they decide to play.
Coaches have to think about more than just football. They’re navigating a world where money and opportunity are part of every decision.
Fairness and Honesty
Morgan’s big on being transparent with both players and their families. He believes in telling it straight about a player’s performance and chances to play.
That honesty helps keep frustration in check. It might even keep players from jumping ship at the first sign of trouble.
The Importance of Mentoring
Even with all these changes swirling around, Morgan insists the heart of coaching hasn’t changed. It’s still about helping young men grow on and off the field.
He tries to focus on the bigger picture—personal growth, not just stats or playing time.
Parental Involvement
Parents are part of the equation, too. Morgan makes a point to keep them in the loop, explaining decisions and performance as clearly as possible.
That kind of openness can go a long way in building trust and keeping everyone on the same page.
Retaining Talent
Michigan’s done a decent job holding onto the players it really wants, even with the portal making it easy to leave. Sure, some guys move on, but it’s often those who weren’t likely to start anyway.
Still, with the way things are going, even the best programs have to stay sharp to keep their rosters intact.
Conclusion
Coaching college football these days? It’s a whole different beast. Coaches are juggling the transfer portal, NIL deals, and a bunch of new expectations.
It takes more than just drawing up plays. There’s a real need for honesty, fairness, and some serious people skills.
Mentoring matters, maybe more than ever. Coaches like LaMar Morgan put a lot of energy into helping players find their way—on and off the field.
If you’re curious and want to hear more from Morgan, check out the full article on Wolverines Wire.
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