The Michigan Wolverines' offensive line took a step back in 2023 compared to the dominant units of 2021-22, but it wasn't a complete liability. Given the youth and inexperience that saw significant playing time, the line actually showed steady improvement as the season progressed—especially in run blocking. Now, with a new coaching staff in place, this group is poised to take the next step forward.

New head coach Kyle Whittingham wasted no time bringing in his offensive line guru, Jim Harding, widely regarded as one of the best in the nation at developing trench talent. Harding's resume speaks for itself: he just sent two former Utah offensive tackles into the first round of the NFL Draft, and his track record of producing pro-ready linemen is among the best in college football.

So how are the Wolverines' big men adapting to Harding's leadership? Redshirt sophomore offensive tackle Blake Frazier joined Jon Jansen on the In the Trenches podcast this week and gave an enthusiastic early review.

"Oh, he's unbelievable. He has been just such a breath of fresh air," Frazier said. "I think he's done a really good job of understanding every individual's personality and figuring out how to work with each of us. He works with me differently than he works with Sprague, and it's not because he feels differently about us—it's because we respond to different things and we play differently. He's done a great job of that."

Frazier highlighted how Harding's personalized approach has already made an impact. "He listens to what things we feel like we need to work on. He's teaching us new techniques that I personally have not had the chance to develop. It's been really nice to get to try new things and figure out how can I make my game as good as it can be?"

This new staff, Harding included, has emphasized teaching fundamentals from day one. For a unit looking to rediscover its elite identity—and protect quarterback Bryce Underwood more effectively—that attention to detail could be the difference-maker. As the Wolverines gear up for spring ball, the early returns suggest Michigan's offensive line is in good hands.