Will Justice Haynes Take the Field for Michigan Against Washington? Updated Depth Chart Analysis
ANN ARBOR, Mich. — The Michigan Wolverines face a pivotal clash against the Washington Huskies this Saturday. The game, set to kick off at 12 p.m. on FOX, could significantly impact Michigan’s 2025 season trajectory. Following a tough 31-13 defeat against USC, Michigan is eager to bounce back. A key aspect of their strategy will depend on the availability of star running back Justice Haynes.
Justice Haynes’ Uncertain Status
Justice Haynes, known for his explosive playmaking, was absent during the latter half of the USC game due to a mid-body injury. Initially, Coach Sherrone Moore expressed optimism about Haynes’ quick recovery. However, Haynes’ availability remains questionable, with offensive coordinator Chip Lindsey acknowledging the uncertainty of his presence against Washington.
Michigan’s Depth Chart Analysis
| Position | Starters | Reserves |
|---|---|---|
| Quarterback | Bryce Underwood | Jadyn Davis, Mikey Keene, Jake Garcia |
| Running Back | Justice Haynes OR Jordan Marshall | Bryson Kuzdzal, Jasper Parker |
| Tight End/H-back | Marlin Klein, Max Bredeson | Hogan Hansen, Zack Marshall, Jalen Hoffman |
| Offensive Line | Evan Link (LT), Giovanni El-Hadi (LG), Greg Crippen (C), Jake Guarnera (RG), Andrew Sprague (RT) | Blake Frazier (T), Nathan Efobi (G), Brady Norton (G) |
| Wide Receivers | Donaven McCulley, Andrew Marsh, Semaj Morgan | Channing Goodwin, Jamar Browder, Kendrick Bell |
| Defensive Line | Derrick Moore (E), Trey Pierce OR Damon Payne (T), Rayshaun Benny (T), Jaishawn Barham (E) | Cameron Brandt (E), Tre Williams (T), TJ Guy (E) |
| Linebackers | Ernest Hausmann, Jimmy Rolder | Cole Sullivan, Troy Bowles |
| Secondary | Jyaire Hill (CB), TJ Metcalf (NB), Brandyn Hillman (S), Rod Moore (S), Zeke Berry (CB) | Jayden Sanders (CB), Mason Curtis (S), Jaden Mangham (S), Shamari Earls (CB) |
| Special Teams | Dominic Zvada (FG/XP), Beckham Sunderland (KO), Hudson Hollenbeck (P) | Semaj Morgan (PR), Joe Taylor (KR) |
Offensive and Defensive Insights
In the absence of Justice Haynes against USC, Michigan’s ground game struggled. Jordan Marshall is likely to take on a more prominent role, whether or not Haynes can participate. On the defensive side, the Wolverines must enhance their tackling, especially against Washington’s dual-threat quarterback, Demond Williams Jr.
The defensive line’s performance is crucial, especially if Trey Pierce remains sidelined. Damon Payne could fill the gap, while Michigan’s secondary aims to improve its recent tackling issues. The linebacking corps, led by Ernest Hausmann and Jimmy Rolder, will be pivotal in containing Washington’s offensive threats.
Stay tuned for game-time decisions and updates as Michigan prepares for a significant match against the Huskies. For more detailed insights and updates, keep an eye on Emegypt.
