Michigan wants more from slumping offensive line: 'it has to start with that group ... we've gotta be better'

Fixing the offensive line is the first step in fixing Michigan football

Michigan football is in a bit of a slump, and the offensive line is a big part of the problem. The Wolverines have allowed 15 sacks in their first three games, which is tied for the most in the country. They're also averaging just 3.5 yards per carry, which is 116th in the FBS. Head coach Jim Harbaugh knows that the offensive line needs to improve, and he's not afraid to say it. "It has to start with that group," Harbaugh said after Michigan's loss to Wisconsin. "We've gotta be better." The offensive line has been a problem for Michigan for years. In 2020, the Wolverines allowed 29 sacks, which was tied for the most in the Big Ten. They also averaged just 3.8 yards per carry, which was 107th in the FBS. Harbaugh has made some changes to the offensive line this season, but they haven't worked yet. The Wolverines have started three different players at left tackle, and they've also moved center Andrew Vastardis to guard. Vastardis and right tackle Ryan Hayes are expected to return for the game against Rutgers. However, left guard Trevor Keegan is out for the season with a torn ACL. Harbaugh knows that he needs to find a way to fix the offensive line, and he's not going to give up until he does. "We've gotta keep working," Harbaugh said. "We've gotta keep getting better."

The offensive line is a key part of any football team

The offensive line is responsible for blocking for the running backs and quarterbacks, and they also help to protect the quarterback from being sacked. When the offensive line is playing well, it makes it easier for the running backs to gain yards and for the quarterback to pass the ball. However, when the offensive line is not playing well, it can make it difficult for the running backs to gain yards and for the quarterback to pass the ball. This can lead to the team losing games. That's why it's so important for Michigan to fix its offensive line. If the Wolverines can't block for their running backs and quarterbacks, they're not going to be able to win games. Harbaugh knows that, and he's not going to give up until he finds a way to fix the offensive line.