The Blue Wall with Michael Smeltzer - Trevor McCue Hops On to Talk Conference Realignment, Initial Roster Reactions, and Depth Chart Speculations

Trevor McCue Hops On to Talk Conference Realignment, Initial Roster Reactions, and Depth Chart Speculations

Explicit content warning

08/07/23 • 70 min

In the most recent episode of the Big House Bleachers podcast, hosts Michael Smeltzer and Matt Hartwell shook up their originally planned depth chart discussion to delve deep into the seismic shift of conference realignment that took college football by storm. They were joined by the well-informed Trevor McCue from Maize and Blue Review.

1. Conference Realignment

The shift to the Big Ten for the likes of Oregon, Washington, USC, and UCLA in 2024 caught everyone by surprise. This means a complete revision of the 2024 Big Ten schedule and potential renegotiations for the 12-team college football playoff.
The Big 12 will be welcoming Arizona, Arizona State, Utah, and Colorado. Unfortunately, Cal, Oregon State, Stanford, and Washington State currently find themselves in conference limbo.
Speculations are rife about the potential movements of notable teams like Notre Dame, Clemson, Florida State, and Miami. It's evident that the landscape of college football is in a state of flux.

2. Initial Roster Reactions

Cole Cabana's impressive weight gain of 18+ pounds has fans excited about his prospects, especially with him now weighing close to Donovan Edward's playing weight.
A jersey number conundrum arises with both Amorion Walker and Jaden McBurrows listed at #1. Who gets the coveted jersey?
James Turner's mustache certainly caught attention, adding a dash of flair to Michigan's kicking game.
Significant weight drops by Derrick Moore (22 lbs) and Kenny Grant (17 lbs) show serious commitment from the players.

3. M&BR Depth Chart Discussion

Matt and Michael took this opportunity to put Trevor in the hot seat, quizzing him on various position groups. Some key takeaways include:

QB: Questions about the backup quarterback arise, and Alex Orji's potential role on the team is a hot topic.
RB: Speculations surround whether or not Cole Cabana and Benjamin Hall will redshirt.
WR: Debates stir about who'll get more receiving yards between Roman and CJ and identifying the third option at wideout.
TE: Freshman Zack Marshall's involvement and Colston Loveland's potential for a breakout season akin to Jake Butt's are discussed.
O-Line: The most likely sleeper to break into the 5 man-starting lineup is a point of contention.
D Tackle: Comparisons between Kris Jenkins and Mazi Smith in pass-rushing situations spur debate.
LB: The possibility of Ernest Hausmann overshadowing Michael Barrett by season's end is speculated.
Secondary: Who will line up opposite Will Johnson?

The episode was packed with insightful discussions, making it a must-listen for all Michigan Football fans. The current state of college football, with its unforeseen changes, ensures that the next season will be one to watch closely!

1. Conference Realignment

The shift to the Big Ten for the likes of Oregon, Washington, USC, and UCLA in 2024 caught everyone by surprise. This means a complete revision of the 2024 Big Ten schedule and potential renegotiations for the 12-team college football playoff.
The Big 12 will be welcoming Arizona, Arizona State, Utah, and Colorado. Unfortunately, Cal, Oregon State, Stanford, and Washington State currently find themselves in conference limbo.
Speculations are rife about the potential movements of notable teams like Notre Dame, Clemson, Florida State, and Miami. It's evident that the landscape of college football is in a state of flux.

2. Initial Roster Reactions

Cole Cabana's impressive weight gain of 18+ pounds has fans excited about his prospects, especially with him now weighing close to Donovan Edward's playing weight.
A jersey number conundrum arises with both Amorion Walker and Jaden McBurrows listed at #1. Who gets the coveted jersey?
James Turner's mustache certainly caught attention, adding a dash of flair to Michigan's kicking game.
Significant weight drops by Derrick Moore (22 lbs) and Kenny Grant (17 lbs) show serious commitment from the players.

3. M&BR Depth Chart Discussion

Matt and Michael took this opportunity to put Trevor in the hot seat, quizzing him on various position groups. Some key takeaways include:

QB: Questions about the backup quarterback arise, and Alex Orji's potential role on the team is a hot topic.
RB: Speculations surround whether or not Cole Cabana and Benjamin Hall will redshirt.
WR: Debates stir about who'll get more receiving yards between Roman and CJ and identifying the third option at wideout.
TE: Freshman Zack Marshall's involvement and Colston Loveland's potential for a breakout season akin to Jake Butt's are discussed.
O-Line: The most likely sleeper to break into the 5 man-starting lineup is a point of contention.
D Tackle: Comparisons between Kris Jenkins and Mazi Smith in pass-rushing situations spur debate.
LB: The possibility of Ernest Hausmann overshadowing Michael Barrett by season's end is speculated.
Secondary: Who will line up opposite Will Johnson?

Previous Episode

Burgergate, Big 10 Media Days, Valenti's Ominous Rant, and Big 10 Power Rankings

In the latest episode of the Big House Bleachers podcast, co-hosts Matt Hartwell and Michael Smeltzer dive into some hot topics surrounding Michigan football. They waste no time addressing the controversy surrounding head coach Jim Harbaugh, who is facing a possible four-game suspension due to an incident known as "Burgergate." The hosts share their thoughts on the situation and its potential impact on the team.

Next, they shift their focus to the quarterback situation and Harbaugh's high praise for incoming freshman JJ McCarthy. Harbaugh considers McCarthy a "once in a generation type quarterback," sparking discussions on how this might shape the team's offensive strategy in the upcoming season.

The podcast then delves into the perennial debate about "The Game" against Ohio State. While Ohio State's coach Ryan Day suggests moving the game's schedule, Harbaugh asserts that Michigan will play it whenever it's traditionally scheduled, emphasizing the Thanksgiving tradition that has become synonymous with this rivalry.

Keeping an eye on player health, Harbaugh expresses confidence in the team's overall well-being. Running back Blake Corum's dedication to the team's success is highlighted, with Corum willing to carry the ball as many times as necessary to secure victories.

The rivalry with Michigan State takes center stage as they discuss the heated atmosphere surrounding the game. Noted sports commentator Mike Valenti's warning to Michigan fans about potential danger in East Lansing creates a significant buzz among the hosts.

The episode wraps up with a lively discussion comparing the Big Ten team rankings. Hartwell and Smeltzer share their insights on where Michigan stands in comparison to other conference teams.

Tune in to the latest episode of the Big House Bleachers podcast for an engaging and insightful analysis of all things Michigan football. From roster updates to heated rivalries, Matt and Michael have got you covered. Go Blue!

Next Episode

Jim Harbaugh Will Coach The Entire 2023 Season, Michigan is #2 in the Coaches Poll, and Jeremiah Lowe Commits to Michigan

In the latest episode of the Big House Bleachers podcast, Michael Smeltzer and Matt Hartwell delve into the hottest topics surrounding Michigan football this week. First up, they tackle the contentious suspension of Jim Harbaugh. While initially it appeared Harbaugh would face a four-game suspension in 2023, recent developments suggest otherwise, with him set to coach the entire season. However, the NCAA's investigation looms large, potentially bringing bigger repercussions in the future. The duo express their concerns over the NCAA's stance, barring Harbaugh and his legal counsel from sharing their side of the story regarding alleged recruiting violations. In another twist, the latest coaches poll has Michigan at the surprising #2 spot, leading to a spirited debate between Mike and Matt about its implications and the teams they expected to see there. Lastly, they spotlight the new recruit, three-star cornerback Jeremiah Lowe, an exciting addition to Michigan's promising roster. Catch all this and more in this engaging episode.

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