2008 OUTLOOK: Bleak. With so many new faces on offense trying to learn a new system, expect plenty of turnovers early while the youngsters try to figure out where they're supposed to go and when they're supposed to be there. They won't have much time to figure it out. After Utah and Miami (Ohio) visit Ann Arbor to start the year, the Wolverines must travel to Notre Dame before hosting Wisconsin and Illinois. Those three games could go a long way in determining Michigan's season. Seven wins aren't out of the question, but at least for right now, Michigan isn't considered an elite team in the Big Ten.

SCOUTING THE OFFENSE
Rich Rodriguez proved his offense can score points in bunches, but he doesn't have a Pat White on the roster to make it all go. He has had success with more pocket-centric passers like Shaun King (Tulane). Freshman Steven Threet seems to be pulling ahead in the quarterback race, but he's more of a passer than a runner. Don't be surprised if Brandon Minor winds up taking snaps at quarterback to bring that speed dimension to the package. The real problem could be up front, where just two starters return on the line. Without protection, Michigan's offense could be abysmal.

SCOUTING THE DEFENSE
At least through September and early October, the defense will have to keep Michigan in games. There is experience up front, which is where most coaches prefer to have experience. Tackle Will Johnson was a force in the spring, as was junior safety Steve Brown, who could be a pleasant surprise next fall. Linebacker Obi Ezeh will man the middle with two new starters on each side, but there should be enough speed and talent on this side of the ball to at least keep Michigan competitive.

SCOUTING THE SPECIAL TEAMS
Kicker K.C. Lopata doesn't have the strongest leg in camp, but he's clearly the most consistent, just as he was last season. That should be enough to give him the job again over red shirt sophomore Bryan Wright, who has the strongest leg, but hasn't yet proven he can do it consistently. Senior Jason Gingell, who opened as the starter last season, continues to struggle both with distance and accuracy. His odds of reclaiming the job continue to slip away. Punter Zoltan Mesko, a favorite of former coach Lloyd Carr's, didn't have a great spring, but he doesn't have much to worry about. Mesko is one of the best in the league.

ROSTER REPORT

--Senior safety Brandon Harrison was hampered by a shoulder injury most of the spring and did not take part in contact. He should be fine by fall.

--RB Carlos Brown broke his finger early in spring camp, and was limited in what he could do. That has put him behind Brandon Minor and Kevin Grady, who both had good springs. Rich Rodriguez is toying with the idea of two tailbacks in the backfield, though, so Brown will still have plenty of opportunities.

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