Before Michigan’s upcoming showdown with top-ranked Oregon and following their rivalry win over Michigan State, Michigan offensive line coach Grant Newsome addressed reporters on various important topics.
See below for Newsome’s thoughts on the offensive line’s performance, next steps for improvement, freshmen making an impact, standout skill players, trick plays, the team’s offensive identity, and more.
**On the offensive line’s emphasis on physicality late in the season:**
“When you get into October and November, like we’re doing now, running the football and playing physical become essential. That’s been a hallmark of Michigan’s offensive lines. Regardless of play-calling adjustments during the game, we’ll need to establish the run and keep our defense rested.”
**On whether players inherently grasp this need or if it needs reinforcement:**
“I think they understand it. We didn’t start well last game in that aspect, struggling early on to establish the run and stay on the field. I was pleased to see the team pick up the pace in the second half and start to wear down Michigan State’s defense. But facing Oregon, we need a quick start.”
**On Oregon’s edge rusher, Jordan Burch:**
“Burch is an elite, dynamic pass rusher with strength and all the qualities you look for in a top edge player. Their entire defensive line is strong, including Harmon, who we’ve seen before when he played at Michigan State. We respect their talent but are excited for the challenge.”
**On improved pass protection against Michigan State (allowing zero sacks):**
“It was our best effort so far. No sacks, no penalties, and no turnovers—always positives. There’s still room for improvement, but we need to start faster up front. Twice, we cut our drives short with simple mistakes, so we have to execute better right from the beginning.”
**On Greg Crippen finally getting his opportunity:**
“For guys like Greg, it’s about staying motivated and preparing like they’re starters. Players who didn’t initially win a spot out of camp, like Gentry, kept competing and eventually earned the chance to start. For us as coaches, it’s about fostering competition and selecting the best five each week to give us the best chance to win.”
**On Crippen being fully healthy after fall camp injuries:**
“Health is definitely an asset, especially for these strong, 320 to 330-pound linemen.”
**On how the offense took itself off the field last game:**
“We had some third-down errors, both on inside zones and toss plays, that we need to clean up. We had the looks we wanted, but small mistakes cost us. Against a team as talented as Oregon, we can’t afford a slow start or missed chances to sustain drives.”
**On freshmen Andrew Sprague and Blake Frazier, likely future tackles:**
“Both have been training at tackle and have made strides to potentially enter the two-deep. They’re putting in the work physically and mentally, especially Blake, who has been focusing on weight training, and Sprague, who has been recovering from a knee injury.”
**On rotating quarterbacks:**
“We look at it as any quarterback on the field can help us win, so we’ll protect them and establish the run game. Our linemen don’t see it as a challenge, but an opportunity, as each quarterback brings unique strengths.”
**On player response to the quarterback rotation:**
“You could see post-game that they were supporting each other—Davis and Orji, for example. They trust each other and just focus on controlling what’s in their power, which is great to see.”
**On what makes Colston Loveland exceptional:**
“He has a unique spatial awareness and field sense, which is hard to describe but rare. He’s faster and more athletic than Jake Butt, which Jake himself has said. He contributes to the run game as well, unlike many tight ends who only excel at receiving.”
**On Andrew Gentry’s injury status:**
“I’ll let Coach Moore speak on any specifics, but I’m very happy with what Andrew has given us these past two games.”
**On relating to Jack Tuttle’s medical retirement:**
“I spoke with him briefly, offering support. As someone who’s faced a similar situation, I know it’s a tough decision, but it reflects his maturity and courage.”
**On Greg Crippen’s dedication to the line:**
“Crippen is a football junkie who spends countless hours studying tape. His dedication and willingness to go all-in is impressive and sets an example for others.”
**On Evan Link’s progress as a redshirt freshman:**
“He came in strong despite a lack of recent game time. Even when he wasn’t the starting option, he kept a positive attitude and used it as motivation to keep improving.”
**On Link’s areas for growth:**
“Consistency is key. He’s shown moments of impressive talent, but as a young tackle facing strong rushers, he needs to reach a higher, more consistent level.”
**On guard performance against MSU:**
“Gio played his most physical game yet. Priebe, on the other hand, was disappointed with his performance and is determined to address those areas. It’s great when players are self-critical and proactive about improvement.”
**On trick plays in practice:**
“We’re constantly preparing them, but timing is key. Coach Campbell always has a few ready, though they sometimes get pushed back. If we can sustain drives better, we’ll create more opportunities to bring out those plays. Coach Moore and Coach Campbell both love using creative plays.”
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