The Wolverine: Covering University of Michigan Football and Sports
Issue link: https://comanpub.uberflip.com/i/230001
LINE FALLS SHORT OF PRESEASON HYPE Michigan's defensive line was expected to be a strength of the defense this year, a blend of veterans and youth with plenty of depth. There was inconsistency, however, and at times the group simply didn't play to a Michigan level, allowing nearly 140 yards rushing per game while linemen combined for just 11.5 sacks and 30 tackles for loss. "Overall I think it was average, and I don't think the guys in the room would tell you any different," said former U-M defensive tackle Will Heininger (2008-11). "There were times they were getting really good penetration and getting upfield. I saw [junior] Frank Clark toward the end of the year where it seemed like the light turned on in terms of run defense for him, where he would go horizontal like you're supposed to when you're doing a stunt, then plant a foot and get vertical. "Some of the plays in Junior defensive end Frank Clark posted 42 tackles in U-M's 12 regular- season games, and he led the team with 4.5 sacks and 12 tackles for loss heading into the bowl game. PHOTO BY PER KJELDSEN the Iowa game he made we really saw him being physical when he shoots a gap, not getting pushed out of there. Offensive linemen, they're going to get a hand on you. They're going to try to react to what you do. He was quick, but strong and decisive." There were moments and flashes when others were "getting it," too. "[Redshirt freshman] Chris Wormley had some good snaps," Heininger said. "[Redshirt freshman] Willie Henry had some times where he stepped up and made some Big Te n f o o t b a l l plays, where he pushed a