As the Michigan Wolverines gear up for their highly anticipated home showdown against the Washington Huskies, a cloud of uncertainty hangs over some of their key players, leaving fans on the edge of their seats. The team’s pregame availability report has just dropped, and it’s packed with updates that could shift the game’s dynamics. But here’s where it gets controversial: starting running back Justice Haynes is listed as questionable, and his absence could be a game-changer for Michigan’s offense. Let’s dive into the details and explore what this means for the Wolverines.
ANN ARBOR, Mich. — With kickoff just around the corner, the Wolverines have confirmed which players are out or in doubt for this critical matchup. Among those officially ruled OUT are starting tight end Marlin Klein, reserve running back Micah Ka’apana, and reserve quarterback Davis Warren. Klein, who also missed Michigan’s second game of the season, has been a standout performer with 12 receptions for 142 yards and a touchdown. Additionally, wide receiver I’Marion Stewart, running back Donovan Johnson, linebacker Jaydon Hood, offensive tackle Andrew Babalola, edge rusher Devon Baxter, and wide receiver CJ Charleston are all sidelined for the season, further thinning the roster.
The QUESTIONABLE list includes Haynes, starting defensive tackle Trey Pierce, potential starting guard Brady Norton, and reserve linebacker Nathaniel Owusu-Boateng. Earlier this week, head coach Sherrone Moore described Haynes’ status as uncertain due to a lingering ‘side’ injury. ‘He’s questionable right now,’ Moore said. ‘There’s a chance he’ll play, but we’ll monitor his progress throughout the week.’
Haynes’ potential absence is particularly noteworthy. Last Saturday marked the first time this season he failed to reach the 100-yard rushing mark, and he didn’t score a touchdown. Heading into that game, Haynes was among the top-five power-conference running backs in rushing yards (130.8 per game), yards per carry (7.7), rushing touchdowns (8), and carries of 15 yards or more (9). He had also already broken off five carries of 40 yards or more—a feat most teams can’t match. In the loss to USC, Haynes was effective in the first half, rushing 10 times for 55 yards and securing four first downs, though his longest carry was just 13 yards.
If Haynes is unable to play, Jordan Marshall is expected to step into the lead role. Marshall carried the ball 14 times for 68 yards last week, and Moore has expressed confidence in his ability to fill the void. ‘Bryson Kuzdzal is another player we’ll consider,’ Moore added. ‘And Jasper Parker, our freshman, has shown real potential in camp and during the season. He’s a big, strong kid with the talent to make an impact.’
Moore sounded slightly more optimistic about Pierce, who has been a defensive stalwart with 15 tackles, nine run stops, and seven quarterback pressures this season. However, after a perfect start to the season in terms of tackling, Pierce missed three tackles against USC, according to Pro Football Focus. ‘We’re hopeful he’ll return,’ Moore said. ‘We’ll get a clearer picture today, but he’s been playing at a high level.’
And this is the part most people miss: While Haynes’ injury dominates the headlines, Pierce’s availability could be just as critical for Michigan’s defense. Without him, the Wolverines may struggle to contain Washington’s potent offense. Is Michigan’s depth enough to weather these absences, or will they falter under the pressure? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
The Wolverines and Huskies are set to kick off shortly after noon, with the game airing live on FOX. This matchup promises to be a thrilling test of resilience, strategy, and depth. Don’t miss it!
