In this episode, Zach Shaw and Steve Lorenz break down Michigan’s decision to hire Don “Wink” Martindale as its next defensive coordinator, and what’s next for him and the Wolverines.
They open with an assessment of Michigan’s selection of Martindale, and dole out grades for the hire. They discuss Martindale’s strengths as a schematic coach, flush with high-level experience, and the continuity he can bring to a Michigan defense that thrived under two of Martindale’s mentees over the last three seasons. They also look at question marks the follow the hire, including Martindale’s potential shortcoming in recruiting, curiosity about how he’ll coach younger, less knowledgable players and how he’ll handle an effective demotion by returning to the college game.
They continue the discussion by zooming out, and looking at what Michigan should prioritize as it fills out the rest of its defensive coaching staff, and how big of a concern player retention is on the defensive side of the ball right now.

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