Sherrone Moore Announces Changes to Help Fix Michigan’s Struggling Return Game
Michigan’s special teams — once a dependable strength — have become a major liability this season. Even All-American kicker Dominic Zvada has taken a step back, hitting just 11 of 17 field goals after missing only one attempt in 2024.
But the return game has been an even bigger issue. Wide receiver Semaj Morgan has handled most of the punt returns this year, yet after fumbling against Northwestern on Saturday, true freshman Andrew Marsh took over on the next opportunity.
On Monday, head coach Sherrone Moore was asked whether Marsh would take over the job permanently. His answer was brief but telling.
“Yeah, probably. Yep,” Moore said, signaling that Marsh is likely to become the primary punt returner starting this week against Maryland.
A Message to Semaj Morgan
Michigan currently ranks 128th nationally in punt return average at just 2.8 yards per attempt. Morgan sits near the bottom individually as well, ranking 53rd out of 54 qualifying players with an average of 2.3 yards per return and a season-long of only 13 yards.
His struggles have been evident throughout the season, from muffed punts to dropped passes. Still, Moore stressed that Morgan remains an important part of the team.
“Stay positive,” Moore said. “The fumble really bothered him — he was trying to do too much and even broke a few tackles. But at some point you have to know when the play is over and get down with the ball. We’ll continue to support him. We’re going to need him.”
Michigan travels to Maryland for a 4 p.m. ET matchup this weekend, where fans will get their first look at whether Marsh can spark improvement in the return unit.
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