As the Michigan Wolverines get ready for the 2026 college football season, everyone’s watching their rising sophomores—especially receiver Andrew Marsh and quarterback Bryce Underwood. But CBS Sports writer Brad Crawford isn’t just talking about the obvious stars; he’s pointing to linebacker Nathaniel Owusu-Boateng as a name to watch.
With a fresh defensive lineup and a spring that turned some heads, Owusu-Boateng looks set to become a key part of Michigan’s playoff push this fall. Could he be the next big name in Ann Arbor? Feels like it.
The Emerging Stars of Michigan Football
Among sophomores expected to break out, Andrew Marsh and Bryce Underwood are already in the spotlight. Marsh led the Wolverines last season in receptions, yards, and touchdowns—he’s on a clear upward path.
Underwood, after a pretty up-and-down freshman year, has started to find his groove with a new position coach. There’s a sense he’s on the verge of something bigger.
Andrew Marsh: A Rising Offensive Threat
Marsh’s first-year stats are nothing to sneeze at:
- Receptions: 45
- Receiving Yards: 651
- Receiving Touchdowns: 4
With numbers like that, it’s no wonder folks are expecting him to be a major part of Michigan’s offense this season. He’s got that spark.
Bryce Underwood: A Quarterback with Potential
Underwood’s freshman campaign had its share of bumps, but the numbers show a lot of promise:
- Completion Percentage: 60.3%
- Passing Yards: 2,428
- Touchdowns: 11
- Interceptions: 9
- Rushing Touchdowns: 6
This spring, he’s looked more confident—maybe even ready to take that next step. You get the feeling he’s just scratching the surface.
Nathaniel Owusu-Boateng: The Under-the-Radar Talent
While Marsh and Underwood have most of the attention, Nathaniel Owusu-Boateng is quietly building his own buzz. He was a four-star recruit and happens to be the younger brother of NFL linebacker Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah.
That family connection? It’s intriguing. But it’s his speed and agility that really set him apart on Michigan’s defense.
Statistical Snapshot
Owusu-Boateng didn’t see the field a ton as a freshman:
- Games Played: 5 (at linebacker)
- Special Teams Appearances: 7
- Total Tackles: 4
Sure, the numbers are modest, but with all the changes in the linebacker group, he’s got a real shot at a bigger role. Sometimes, all you need is that opening.
Defensive Reshuffle
Michigan’s linebacker room has been through the wringer lately:
- Jimmy Rolder: Drafted by the Detroit Lions
- Cole Sullivan: Transferred to Oklahoma
- Ernest Hausmann: Medically retired
- Jaishawn Barham: Shifted to edge rusher, drafted by the Dallas Cowboys
With so many changes, Owusu-Boateng could be stepping into the spotlight sooner than anyone expected.
Coaching and Development
Under head coach Kyle Whittingham and the defensive staff, Owusu-Boateng is being eyed for blitzing and pass-rush duties. His speed lets him move like a safety, which just makes him that much more valuable.
Comparisons and Expectations
People can’t help but compare him to his brother, Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah. He’s got similar athletic traits, and after a solid spring, Brad Crawford and others are betting on a breakout season.
Looking Ahead
The Wolverines finished 9-4 last year and now open Whittingham’s first season as head coach on September 5, hosting Western Michigan. All eyes are on how these sophomores—especially Owusu-Boateng—will shape the team’s fortunes this fall.
Key Takeaways
With the 2026 season creeping up, there are a few things worth watching:
- Andrew Marsh: Looks set to keep up his strong play from last year.
- Bryce Underwood: Has been making real strides and showing off some serious potential.
- Nathaniel Owusu-Boateng: Could be on the verge of a breakout year at linebacker.
If you’re curious about Nathaniel Owusu-Boateng or just want more on the Michigan Wolverines, you can dive into the full article over at Detroit News.
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