We all know about Bryce Underwood, the new defensive tackle tandem and plenty of other Michigan Wolverines. But what about some of the lesser-talked-about names?
Matt Zenitz of 247Sports had transfer wide receiver Donaven McCulley and returning offensive tackle Andrew Sprague among his 25 breakout stars in the Big Ten this season.
WR Donaven McCulley
An Indiana transfer, McCulley will play his fifth year of college football in Ann Arbor. He began his career as a quarterback, completing 35-of-82 attempts for 475 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions. But the Hoosiers quickly converted him to wide receiver, where he had his breakout season in 2023.
McCulley, a true X at 6-foot-5, 200 pounds, hauled in 48 catches for 644 yards and six touchdowns as a junior two seasons ago. However, his senior campaign was marred by an upper-body injury and friction with then-new head coach Curt Cignetti. McCulley left the program and later committed to the Wolverines.
Now a member of Chip Lindsey’s offense, McCulley should be the big-bodied receiver that Underwood searches for in times of doubt. That frame and possession ability should help ease Underwood as he is thrown into the fire.
“He had a good spring and is going to be heavily involved,” a source told 247Sports. “He worked really hard in the spring and had some good moments in the spring. A lot of people in the building think he’s going to be a guy right off the bat.”
McCulley will have help from junior Fredrick Moore, redshirt senior transfer Anthony Simpson and junior Semaj Morgan, among others. There is no reason he cannot ascend to that top target status early in the fall.
OT Andrew Sprague
Sprague saw limited playing time last year. However, he made his first start against Alabama during the ReliaQuest Bowl and did more than hold his own. He helped pave the way for running back Jordan Marshall to crack 100 yards on the ground.
At 6-foot-8, 305 pounds, Sprague has the elite size and enough athleticism to fortify Underwood’s strong side. He should also benefit from playing with and learning from veterans Giovanni El-Hadi and Greg Crippen.
But the development of guys like Sprague is crucial to Michigan’s outlook this year. Long dominant in the trenches, Moore and offensive line coach Grant Newsome will need a stellar outing from their bullies up front. This, coupled with what should be a strong run game, are the most important elements to Underwood’s success.
Sprague will need to perform up to expectations early, too, as five-star freshman Andrew Babalola is breathing down everyone’s necks.
“I think [Sprague]’s going to have a really good year,” a source said.
