The Michigan Wolverines kicked their 2024 season off on Saturday, August 31, against the Fresno State Bulldogs. The game was predicted to be a blowout, but the Bulldogs came too-close-for-comfort to the Wolverines, especially in the first half. In the end, Michigan won 30-10 and were able to pull away from the Bulldogs with some random players, but the tough game left many NFL critics and experts wondering if Michigan will really be a top-tier team this season.

At least one college football expert was impressed, though. In an August 31 feature, Brad Shepard of Bleacher Report has some positive things to say about Michigan.

Michigan is a ‘Winner’ Following Fresno State Win

In the article, Shepard dubbed Michigan a “winner” and said they’re “in the midst of a rebrand.”

Shepard does recognize that many people are doubting Michigan this season.

“If you’re already in the boat of believing that the Michigan Wolverines are a whole lot worse than they were a season ago when they won the national championship, you’re in the majority,” he stated. “But, if you recall, Jim Harbaugh’s bunch didn’t always boat-race opponents during a phenomenal three-year run that culminated in last year’s title.”

He added that in new head coach Sherrone Moore’s first game with the team, “the Wolverines hosted a tougher-than-you-think Fresno State team that was one of the Group of Five’s best a season ago and returned quarterback Mikey Keene and a bunch of talent.”

He added, “The Wolverines struggled at times in a game that was a one-score lead late, but they ultimately punched in a separation score, then star cornerback Will Johnson sealed it with an 86-yard pick-six as they put away the Bulldogs, 30-10. Defensively, the Wolverines were exceptional at times against an offense that has proved difficult to defend.”

Kalel Mullings is a Bright Spot

Shepard highlighted Kalel Mullings as one of the best pieces of the Wolverines’ offensive line.

“On offense, Kalel Mullings was the brightest spot in the rushing attack, finishing with 92 yards on the ground, and Colston Loveland is a weapon in the passing game,” he stated. “But the Wolverine’s two-quarterback system looks more like they’re looking for one of Davis Warren and Alex Orji to seize the job rather than they’re showing off two separate skill sets.”

He added, “Michigan has a long way to go, but it played a quality opponent that fought and was up to the challenge on Saturday night. Was it ugly? Yes, it was, but the Wolverines gutted out a big, early win on their way to a repeat attempt.”

Elsewhere, Shepard also gave Notre Dame props for their showing against Texas A&M. It makes sense that they would make the cut, because Notre Dame pulled off a surprise win against Texas A&M, 23-13, on August 31.

“There wasn’t anything beautiful about the win, but winning anywhere in the SEC—especially against a ranked opponent—is glorious” he stated. “This Notre Dame team has a tough schedule, but the Irish are going to be battle-tested with games like this.”