Top 5 Michigan football observations through the 1st week of camp

Replacing linebacker/safety Stevie Brown will be one of the biggest challenges for the Michigan defense this summer.

Lon Horwedel | AnnArbor.com

Week one is done.

The Michigan football team has completed its first five days of summer practice and will enjoy an off day Saturday. Here’s a look at the top 5 observations so far:

1. Strength in numbers. Uncertainty exists at plenty of positions, including running back, quarterback and safety. At least the Wolverines have options at each position.

That hasn’t been the case in recent seasons, when lack of depth hurt when players transferred, injuries hit or players wore down late in games.

2. One answer, one question. From listening to Rich Rodriguez and others talk, it sure sounds like true freshman Will Hagerup has all but nailed down the punting job.

Not so much the case at kicker, where Brendan Gibbons is battling walk-on Seth Broekhuizen. If Broekhuizen wins, it would be the second straight year a walk-on beat out Gibbons, on scholarship, for the job. (Last year it was Jason Olesnavage).

3. Sleeper to watch. Hanging the fate of the Wolverines on one player is a bit much, but don’t underestimate the importance of Cam Gordon, who switched from receiver to safety this spring.

Asking him to contribute right away seems like a lot to expect, but coaches keep raving about his development. If Gordon can make an impact, he’ll provide a big answer at a position where there’s lots of depth, but few known quantities.

4. No NCAA effect. Sure, whatever conclusions emerge from Seattle will have a big impact on Rodriguez. Beyond support for their coach, the players couldn't care less about the NCAA violations, and they’re not distracted by the case whatsoever.

“Most guys by now have forgotten about it or put it on the back burner,” team captain Stephen Schilling said Thursday. “We’re focusing on playing football.”

5. Filling big shoes. One of the few bright spots last year on Michigan’s defense was Stevie Brown’s emergence at the hybrid linebacker/safety position.

The Wolverines will try to replicate that success this season, but it’s not yet known whether they have a player who possesses the same combination of athleticism and speed that Brown brought to the position.

Candidates are Kevin Leach, Thomas Gordon, Floyd Simmons and Josh Furman, according to defensive coordinator Greg Robinson.

Have a question about the Michigan football team? Email Pete Bigelow at petebigelow@annarbor.com. Follow him on Twitter @PeterCBigelow.