[Lefty Noob]

The Wolverines, fresh off a disappointing 7-5 season last year, started their spring practice drills earlier this week, and while much of the talk surrounded the new faces on the coaching staff, there were some legitimate questions raised about the players themselves.

First off, how badly is Antonio Bass hurt? Apparently bad enough that the sophomore won't be participating in spring practice. According to sources, he injured his knee earlier this month in conditioning drills.

Secondly, where the heck are the quarterbacks? Sophomore Chad Henne is the starter, and the only other scholarship QB on the roster right now is redshirt freshman Jason Forcier. A true freshman by the name of David Cone is coming later in the year, but he clearly won't be ready. I'd hope the offensive line is good at pass protecting if I were you, UM fans!

Third, can the Wolverines run the ball?

Carr also stressed the need to return to a more balanced offensive attack. Last season, the Wolverines struggled to run the ball efficiently. They mustered just 32 yards rushing in their season finale against Ohio State. Even though a healthy Mike Hart will help the Wolverine ground game this season, Carr stressed the importance of establishing the run.

"What we need to do offensively, that we didn't do a year ago, is run the football more effectively," Carr said. "If you're going to be successful and play championship football, I think you have to run the football."

Fourth, will the defense improve, especially against the big play?

The Wolverines will also need to improve a defense that gave up too many big plays during the late stages of games. The Michigan defense allowed game-winning drives in the fourth quarter against Wisconsin, Minnesota, Ohio State and Nebraska.

"You have to be good against the run, and I think you have to prevent big plays," Carr said. "I want a defense that's not giving up big plays."

And finally, can this team compete in the Big Ten?

Not unless the responses to questions 1-4 are favorable ones, that's for sure!