Depth still an issue for Wolverines

Even before the recent departures of three members of Michigan's 2008 recruiting class - receiver Justin Feagin was dismissed for a violation of team rules Thursday and offensive linemen Dan O'Neill and Kurt Wermers recently transferred - depth was Rich Rodriguez's biggest concern heading into fall camp.

"You got to practice to get them ready," the Michigan coach said Monday at Big Ten football media day. "As a coach in college you don’t have any exhibition games or preseason games, so we got to bang a little it to get them ready and you’re going good on good. Every time after scrimmage you hope you execute well and you keep your fingers crossed that your key guys don’t get hurt."

The Wolverines have a stable of capable players at most skill positions, but little depth across most of the defense. The defensive line, where Brandon Graham is the only returning starter, is especially concerning.

"Eventually we’ll have enough depth where one guy goes down, another guy goes in, you’ll be OK," Rodriguez said. "But we’re not at that point right now."