Michigan Football: Wolverines' Biggest Concerns Post-Spring Practice

Though there aren't many football-related worries in Ann Arbor, the Michigan Wolverines wrapped up spring practice with a handful of mild concerns.

Perhaps to the irritation of some, the primary topic remains Michigan's quarterback battle. But with a competition this important, it's simply unavoidable.

While the Wolverines avoided serious injuries this spring, a series of ailments revealed a minor yet notable depth issue.

Michigan has five months to address each concern—none of which are debilitating individually. However, they could pose a significant problem if combined.

Ongoing Quarterback Competition

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Wilton Speight and John O'Korn appeared more consistent than Shane Morris during the spring game, but neither is an undisputed starter.

There's no timetable for head coach Jim Harbaugh and passing game coordinator Jedd Fisch to name a No. 1. Fisch said the Wolverines won't rush into a decision for the sake of one, per Max Cohen of the Detroit Free Press.

Plus, Harbaugh said each quarterback was still making a big mistake every day near the end of spring practice, according to Jake Lourim of the Michigan Daily.

When you have two quarterbacks, you have none. Michigan needs to find its one.

Is Any Running Back Better Than Decent?

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De'Veon Smith was the team's leading rusher from 2014 to 2015, but he's certainly not an explosive back. Although Drake Johnson is a fine player, he's never really dropped any jaws.

And there's Ty Isaac, who recently looked fantastic. However, rule No. 1 of post-spring game discussions is to avoid definitive reactions. Isaac lost a place in the backfield last year.

Kareem Walker undoubtedly has the potential to be special, but setting high immediate expectations for a true freshman is unwise.

The Wolverines have options. But will anyone emerge as an outstanding running back in 2016?

Offensive Line's Run Blocking

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In 2015, the Wolverines allowed just 18 sacks. Pass protection was the offensive line's collective strength. Opening lanes for the running game was a different story.

Mason Cole has shifted from left tackle to center, creating an opportunity for Grant Newsome to enter the lineup alongside four incumbents. Granted, offensive line coach Tim Drevno hasn't handed a starting job to anyone for next season.

"We're always trying to get better," Drevno said, according to Max Cohen of the Detroit Free Press. "It's about competing every day at the highest level. That's the same with my job. I've got to be on point every day."

Drevno's coaching was one of the driving forces behind Michigan's improvement up front last year compared to 2014. This time, the challenge is helping the Wolverines improve from a willing run offense to a dangerous one.

Could the Receivers Overcome a Key Injury?

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Jehu Chesson has been unavailable since the Citrus Bowl due to a knee injury, and foot surgery ended Maurice Ways' spring session. Theoretically, both will be ready in the fall.

Michigan doesn't need a stable of receivers. As it stands, Chesson, Amara Darboh and tight end Jake Butt will shoulder a strong majority of the pass-catching load. Provided no mishaps occur, the Wolverines will be in solid shape.

But what if health problems flare up during the regular season? Depth is a realistic concern, considering Morris even ran routes during the scrimmage.

Grant Perry's strong spring game came against backup corners, while Drake Harris' long reception was over a walk-on reserve. They could be formidable reserves, but that's still uncertain.

Michigan needs Perry, Harris or Ways to develop and make this minor issue irrelevant.

Linebacker Depth

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Though linebacker has long been considered the weakness of the 2016 roster, updates and performance at the position this spring were encouraging.

Still, it's not unreasonable for fans to have nagging doubts.

Every March, supporters hear, "This is [Player X]'s year," or "[Player Y] has really grasped the system," then eventually see that player standing on the sideline come September.

Jabrill Peppers' move to linebacker will help lessen the burden on Ben Gedeon, Mike McCray, Devin Bush Jr. and others. Instead of needing three new starters, the Wolverines only need to identify a stalwart—likely Gedeon—and settle on a rotation.

But the regular season will provide the ultimate answer of whether or not Michigan has enough talent at the second level.