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Michigan Freshman, Offensive Lineman Singled Out by Position Coach For 1 Key Reason

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nick Meyer | Last updated Jun 18, 2025 5:43 PM ET

The Michigan football program signed one of its best classes in years heading into the 2025 season with the nation's top prospect Bryce Underwood leading the way.

Underwood was given a 100 out of 100 ranking by 247Sports.com, one of four prospects to be given that distinction along with Alabama QB commit Keelon Russell, Georgia RB commit Elijah Griffin, and Ohio State QB Tavien St. Clair.

On Wednesday, Michigan senior assistant offensive line coach Juan Castillo shared his thoughts on another highly decorated Wolverines recruit, Andrew Babalola, just over two months away from his Wolverines debut.

"He's the kind of kid that does all the extra work," Castillo said of Babalola on the 'In the Trenches' show recently.

"To me, offensive line play is about doing the extra work. That's how you become special. If you just do what everybody else does, you're not gonna be that kind of offensive guy."

Michigan's offensive line was up and down performance wise last season with the unit rounding into form late in the season, in time to rack up rushing yards against Northwestern, Ohio State and Alabama in three wins to close out the season.

The Wolverines are expected to start Evan Link and Andrew Sprague at the left and right tackle positions, but Babalola's talent and work ethic could put him in position to contribute as a freshman, either in spot duty or as a starter.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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