After a lackluster 2024 season in which the Michigan Wolverines football team ranked a dismal 109th in the nation in points per game and ended with a disappointing 8-5 record, there is no question that a dramatic improvement on offense—particularly in the passing game—is crucial if they hope to reestablish themselves as contenders in 2025. One of the most glaring weaknesses was Michigan’s aerial attack, which finished an abysmal 127th in the country in passing yards per game, ahead of only the three service academies known for their run-heavy offenses.
According to Tony Garcia of the Detroit Free Press, Michigan’s wide receiver corps was historically unproductive last season. No wide receiver on the roster recorded even 250 receiving yards all season, which averages out to less than 20 yards per game. Furthermore, not a single Wolverines wideout had more than two touchdown catches, none averaged over 2.1 receptions per game, and most damning of all, no one hauled in a single pass of 40 yards or more. This lack of explosiveness and reliability severely limited the Wolverines’ ability to stretch the field or mount consistent scoring drives.
However, despite the bleak 2024 numbers, there are reasons to believe things could improve significantly in 2025. One source of optimism comes from the transfer portal. Indiana transfer Donaven McCully brings a proven collegiate résumé with 66 receptions, 834 yards, and eight touchdowns in his career. UMass transfer Anthony Simpson adds additional experience and production with 68 catches for 910 yards and three touchdowns. These additions should give Michigan more reliable options on the outside.
The Wolverines are also adding young talent in the form of promising freshmen Jamar Browder and Andrew Marsh, both of whom have high ceilings and could provide the burst and versatility the offense lacked. The incoming group of wideouts is expected to create a more competitive and dynamic unit that can challenge defenses vertically and improve overall passing efficiency.
On top of new personnel, Michigan will feature new leadership on offense, as Chip Lindsey takes over as offensive coordinator. His offensive philosophy, combined with a quarterback battle between accomplished Fresno State transfer Mikey Keene and elite 2025 recruit Bryce Underwood—who is widely considered the top high school player in the country—signals a full-scale overhaul of Michigan’s offensive identity.
In short, while Michigan’s passing game was among the worst in college football last season, a combination of upgraded talent at wide receiver, a new offensive system, and better quarterback play could lead to a significant turnaround in 2025.
