ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Michigan Wolverines defensive run game coordinator and linebackers coach Brian Jean-Mary discussed his position group’s biggest adjustments and key challenges following their loss to the USC Trojans, ahead of their matchup against the Washington Huskies.
Jean-Mary said the biggest improvement from the USC game to last week was better tackling and shedding blocks.
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“Our eyes were better,” said Jean-Mary.
While no one felt they played their best against USC, the unit came out with a clear purpose to improve.
“Individually, I thought they all tackled well and were in better position to make plays versus Washington than they were versus USC.”
Aidan Chiles
When asked about facing dual-threat quarterback Aidan Chiles, Jean-Mary called him “one of the top dual-threat quarterbacks we’ll face this year.”
Jean-Mary noted Charles’ athleticism, strong arm, and ability to keep plays alive with his feet, whether avoiding sacks or throwing downfield.
“We have to do a great job of not just keeping him in the pocket as a passer, but tackling him as a runner when they decide to run him on quarterback runs,” Chiles said.
The Wolverines head to East Lansing to take on the Michigan State Spartans on Saturday (Oct. 25) inside Spartan Stadium.
Kickoff is at 7:30 p.m.
Coaching style
Jean-Mary described his coaching style as straightforward.
After the USC game, there were no rousing speeches; instead, the team focused on recognizing areas for improvement.
“When you’re a good defensive football player, after a performance that wasn’t up to standard, you can get yourself going,” Jean-Mary said.
On the topic of leadership and communication, Jean-Mary explained the use of the “green dot” helmet, which designates the player who communicates defensive calls.
Several linebackers, including Jimmy Rolder, Cole Sullivan, Troy Bowles, and Ernest Hausmann, have experience with the green dot, which helps them communicate effectively with the defensive backs.
Sullivan’s development stood out as a highlight.
Jean-Mary praised his maturity and work ethic, noting that Sullivan came in as a raw player but has grown into a confident and effective linebacker.
“The best is yet to come for him,” Jean-Mary said, adding that Sullivan was still developing physically and mentally.
Defensive strategy
Regarding defensive strategy, Jean-Mary acknowledged that opponents often test their screen defense, especially given their aggressive style.
“We have to do a better job recognizing screens and matching receivers in zone coverage,” Jean-Mary said.
Jean-Mary emphasized the balance between aggression and awareness to avoid overrunning plays.
He also spoke about the impact of defensive lineman Derrick Moore, highlighting how a strong D-line helps linebackers by controlling blockers and creating opportunities to make plays.
When asked about linebacker hesitation, Jean-Mary said it depends on the play.
While instincts and aggression are crucial for developing runs, players must be more cautious on screens to avoid taking themselves out of the play.
On depth and competition, Jean-Mary praised Bowles’ readiness and competitiveness, noting that a highly competitive room pushes players to perform their best every practice and game.
Finally, Jean-Mary addressed the pass defense, especially coverage over the middle.
He acknowledged communication issues and the need to improve zone coverage to prevent 20 to 30-yard chunk plays that sustain opposing drives.
“We have to do a better job in some of our coverage aspects to reach the level we want.”