ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Michigan Wolverines defensive pass game coordinator and defensive backs coach LaMar Morgan expressed optimism about Rod Moore’s recovery and return to game action.
“He’s been working really hard, trying to get in all the reps at practice,” said Morgan. “He’s trending in the right direction, being physical and running well. The medical team and his family have a good plan, and we’re excited to get him back soon.”
Moore is expected to bring leadership and calmness to the field.
“He’s like a coach on the field, a great communicator, and a tough kid. He’s a leader and role model who pushes his teammates by how he acts and responds to adversity,” Morgan said.
Despite Moore’s absence, the safety play has been solid this season.
Young players
Morgan acknowledged some mistakes but praised the effort and care of the young players.
“We focus on communication, lining up correctly, making plays on the ball, and tackling in the open field — those are our pillars,” Morgan said.
Morgan said he watches opposing offenses extensively to prepare the defense, focusing on plays that have caused problems in past games.
He admitted he spends less time studying other teams’ defenses, preferring to focus on his own players.
Young players like Elijah Dotson from Belleville and Shamari Earls have made an impact early.
“They’re learning the high standard of play here. We play a lot of freshmen, and we want them ready when their opportunity comes,” Morgan said.
Jaden Sanders earned his role behind Zeke Berry due to his maturity, intelligence, and hard work.
“He came from a blue-collar program, played both offense and defense in high school, and has worked hard while waiting for his chance,” Morgan said.
Berry is working to return from injury. Morgan noted that defensive backs need to feel comfortable pushing off and reacting quickly, which can take time to develop after an injury has occurred.
“If he’s ready, he’ll give everything every play,” Morgan said.
Nebraska
Regarding the upcoming game at Nebraska, Morgan described their quarterback, Dylan Raiola, as a pro-level talent with strong receivers and a good running back.
“We’ll have to tackle well, communicate, and be physical in a hostile environment,” Morgan said.
Morgan highlighted the importance of defending against double moves, which have targeted players like Jyaire Hill and Berry in recent years.
“It’s about good eyes, fast tempo handling, and rerouting receivers. We’ll work on that all week,” Morgan said.
History
Nebraska has not won a game against a ranked opponent since defeating the No. 22-ranked Oregon Ducks 35-32 on Sept. 17, 2016.
Since then, the Cornhuskers have lost 27 straight games against ranked teams.
However, with a 3-0 start led by quarterback Dylan Raiola, who has a skill set comparable to Patrick Mahomes, Nebraska sees an opportunity against a 2-1 Michigan team starting 18-year-old freshman quarterback Underwood.
If Nebraska loses, it would tie Indiana’s record of 28 consecutive losses against AP top 25 opponents, a streak that lasted from 1993 to 2000.
Michigan will be without coach Moore, who is serving the second game of a self-imposed suspension related to sign-stealing allegations from 2023.
Nebraska will try to upset the No. 21-ranked Wolverines on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025, at Memorial Stadium in Lincoln.
The Cornhuskers have not beaten Michigan since 2013. Michigan has dominated the last four matchups, including a 45-7 win in 2023.
Saturday’s game will be the 11th meeting between the two teams, with Michigan leading the series 6-4.