Wolverine TV podcast: Balas, Skene on Michigan O-line, etc.
Michigan kicks off the 2022 season with a game against Colorado State a week from Saturday, and there are high hopes in Ann Arbor. The offense appears set to take another step forward, bolstered by an outstanding offensive line. There are excellent skill position players all over the field, two capable quarterbacks and a solid defense.
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But it all starts up front, and this year will be no exception. Michigan returns three of five offensive linemen in Ryan Hayes, Trevor Keegan, and Zak Zinter — all are first-team All-Big Ten candidates. Virginia center and transfer Olu Oluwatimi is a Rimington Award favorite (nation’s top center), and senior Trente Jones is ready for a breakout year at right tackle.
Hayes is one whose body continues to evolve.
“I changed up some of my techniques from last season, which has really helped me,” the Michigan veteran said. “Also, just putting on some more muscle. I think that’s what I’ve noticed this first week, week-and-a-half. I feel stronger and more comfortable taking on bull rushes and stuff like that.”
Strength coach Ben Herbert and his staff helped in that respect.
“Me and Coach Herb had a plan, a focus for me specifically this offseason that helped,” Hayes said. “My numbers have gone up. We do these body scans, and my muscle has gone up. So, I know exactly how much I’ve gained where.
“I just feel it on the field. It’s a lot different from last year.”
He’s stronger, and ready to take his game to the next level.
TheWolverine.com’s Chris Balas and former Michigan All-Big Ten offensive lineman Doug Skene talk about his progress in today’s TV Podcast. They touch on senior tight end Erick All’s blocking and more, as well.
