Michigan Wolverines
2000 overall record: 9-3
Conference record: 6-2 (t-1st)
Returning starters
Offense: 4
Defense: 8
Kickers: 1
2000 statistical leaders (* - returners)
Rushing: Anthony Thomas (1,733)
Passing: Drew Henson (2,146)
Receiving: David Terrell (1,130)
Tackles: DeWayne Patmon (86)
Sacks: Victor Hobson* (3)
Interceptions: Todd Howard* (6)
What's new
Everyone knows QB John Navarre will replace Drew Henson, who left Michigan early to play in the New York Yankees organization, but another big change will be the left side of the offensive line. The Wolverines must replace four-year starters Jeff Backus and Steve Hutchinson. The pair had a combined 93 career starts and were both taken in the first round of the NFL Draft.
Battling it out
Chris Perry and Walter Cross are the leading candidates to replace Anthony Thomas at tailback, which will be a tall order. Perry would be the favorite going into the fall, but there could also be competition from redshirt freshman Tim Bracken.
Eye catcher: LB Zach Kaufman
He has played since the first game of his true freshman season, but mostly on special teams. This spring, Kaufman showed good defensive instincts and was often in the middle of plays. He should see playing time as a backup inside linebacker in addition to his continued role on special teams.
Budding star: WR Marquise Walker
Had it not been for David Terrell, Walker might already be a star. But instead, his 50 catches and 700 receiving yards last season were somewhat overlooked. And don't expect the departure of Drew Henson to have much effect on Walker's 2001 season. Last season, he caught four TD passes -- three of which were thrown by Navarre.
Brad Edwards researches college football for ESPN and is a contributor to ESPN.com throughout the year.
