Michigan might not be back, but its slow build is something to follow as the college football season gets underway in three months' time.
Following an 8-5 season this past year and a fourth-straight win against Ohio State in the regular season finale in Columbus, the Wolverines are embarking on a new journey with quarterback Bryce Underwood.
In SN's way-too-early top 25, Bill Bender has the Wolverines at No. 16 and wrote that most of their opponents are winnable, and if the chips fall where they may, a College Football Playoff appearance is a relative possibility.
The Wolverines capped off the season with a ReliaQuest Bowl win against Alabama, extending their winning streak to three entering this coming season.
Coach Sherrone Moore has yet to make a decision as to who his quarterback is going to be, although Bender predicts Underwood could get the nod.
"He should improve a pass offense that ranked 130th in the FBS last season," Bender wrote. "Jordan Marshall and Alabama transfer Justice Haynes form a solid backfield, but the Wolverines need receivers to step up. Defensive tackle Rayshaun Benny, linebacker Jaishawn Barham and cornerback Jyaire Hill are breakout candidates in Wink Martindale's defense."
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Bender also noted two games the Wolverines must win to increase their chances, which would include beating the Buckeyes again and breaking a drought while doing so.
"September tests at Oklahoma (Sept. 6) and Nebraska (Sept. 20) will be telling. Michigan has not beat Ohio State in five straight seasons since a six-game winning streak from 1922-27," Bender wrote.
The Wolverines are seeking their first national title in two seasons, so only time will tell.