The Michigan Wolverines' 2026 Spring Game showcased a trio of freshmen who are already making waves in the college football world. While the final score of 7-6 might not be indicative of the season's outcome, the performances of quarterback Tommy Carr, running back Savion Hiter, and wide receiver Salesi Moa were certainly impressive. These three players have the potential to become the faces of Michigan football for years to come, and their talent is already generating significant buzz.
Hiter, a consensus five-star recruit and the best running back in the country, wowed the coaching staff with his physicality and determination. Despite only being in the program for a few months, he displayed a relentless attitude, refusing to go down easily even when tackling was tough. Hiter's goal is to be a force on the field, and his comparisons to Bijan Robinson and Travis Etienne highlight his ambition. His performance in the spring game, with 10 attempts for 44 yards, was a testament to his ability to make something out of nothing.
Moa, another highly recruited freshman, transferred from Utah to Michigan after Whittingham's hire. His two-way contributions in high school, including 226 catches, 3,757 yards, and 44 touchdowns on offense, along with 128 tackles and five interceptions on defense, make him a versatile player. Moa's performance in the spring game, with a one-handed grab and 21 yards after the catch, showcased his speed and elusiveness. While the box score might not have been eye-opening, his impact on the field was evident.
The most intriguing development, however, might be the emergence of Tommy Carr at quarterback. As the grandson of Lloyd Carr, he had the most snaps at quarterback in the spring game and performed admirably. His decision-making, understanding of the scheme, and running ability against talented defensive players were notable. Carr's potential as a reliable backup or even a future starter is a conversation that is already gaining traction. With the possibility of an injury to Underwood, Carr's early development is a positive sign for the Wolverines.
The combination of these top young talents with established veterans around Underwood could be a turning point for Michigan. The program is building a strong foundation for the future, and the hype surrounding Hiter, Moa, and Carr is well-deserved. Their performances in the spring game have set the stage for an exciting season, and the Wolverines are poised to make a significant impact in college football once again.
