The Wolverine

May 2016 Issue

The Wolverine: Covering University of Michigan Football and Sports

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R edshirt sophomore Jabrill Peppers didn't see the field offensively in the spring, and that was by design. With the 6-1, 208-pounder learning a new role at strongside linebacker, the coaches wanted Peppers focused solely on that side of the ball. They also wanted to give opportu- nities to younger players at running back and wide receiver to distinguish themselves this spring, knowing any rep that Peppers earned was one less for a second-, third- or fourth-string- ers trying to develop. "He's been permanently with the defense this spring, but there are times we can use him," offensive co- ordinator Tim Drevno said. Peppers had 26 offensive touches last year, averaging 5.8 yards per touch, while scoring a pair of touch- downs, and he has every intention of playing offense again in 2016. "I think it was more that they didn't want to overload me this spring with offense because this is my third de- fensive coordinator in three years," he said. "But once we get closer to the season, I think they'll bring me back over. "That's what I believe. "We haven't spoken about my ex- act role yet. I just wanted to gel with the guys on defense and really tried to understand the scheme and what Coach [Don] Brown is trying to do." And what he's trying to do is ex- ploit Peppers' athleticism, speed, in-   MICHIGAN FOOTBALL Jabrill Peppers Will Return To Offensive Role In The Fall Peppers focused exclusively on defense this spring while making the move from the secondary to strongside linebacker, but he is still expected to earn offensive touches in the fall. PHOTO BY LON HORWEDEL

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