The Michigan Wolverines had a somewhat disappointing 8-5 season last year, but with a large number of returning players, expectations are high for the Wolverines again. However, to get back to the top of the Big Ten, Michigan needs a few players to have breakout seasons.
Breakout seasons happen every year in college football. Sometimes, the player in question shows flashes the previous season and takes the next step forward. Sometimes, the player comes out of nowhere to make a massive impact. So who will be the Michigan Football breakout players in 2018? Here are the three most likely candidates:
WR Tarik Black
Black was easily the best of a young receiving core in 2017 before suffering a season-ending injury, leading the Wolverines in every major category. He was given a medical redshirt for the year but was healthy for the spring, meaning all systems are go for a breakout campaign. Plus, Michigan's offense figures to be much more wide open with Shea Patterson under center, which will give him more opportunities to produce.
OT Jon Runyan Jr.
Runyan, son of the Michigan legend by the same name, has pretty much locked up the starting right tackle job thanks to his play in the spring. The offensive line is thought to be this team's biggest weakness going into 2018 (new offensive line coach Ed Warinner is hoping to change that) but Runyan should be a strong point and one of the leaders on the unit.
TE Zach Gentry
Gentry, a high school quarterback, made the switch to tight end in 2016 and now will be the starter because of his size (6-foot-7) and high-level athleticism. We know how much Harbaugh loves to use his tight ends, and with the offense becoming more vertical with Patterson, Gentry would see plenty of balls come his way.
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