In 2024, Michigan’s defense clearly outperformed its offense, often serving as the backbone of the team and keeping them competitive in tight games. Heading into the 2025 season, the Wolverines’ defense is once again shaping up to be elite—and they’re well aware of it.
Defensive tackle Rayshaun Benny, now entering his fifth and final year in Ann Arbor, has a clear vision for how he and his fellow linemen want to finish their college careers. Speaking with Jon Jansen on the In the Trenches podcast, Benny laid out the defensive line’s ambitions for the year.
“Our goal is to be the best defensive line in the country,” Benny said. “Fewest rushing yards allowed—we’re trying to have a sack party in the backfield.”
In 2024, Michigan’s defense was already dominant, ranking fifth nationally by allowing just 90.7 rushing yards per game. But this group isn’t content with that—they’re aiming even higher in 2025.
Rayshaun Benny enters his final season at Michigan feeling stronger and more prepared than ever. After a dedicated offseason, he’s at his highest playing weight and in peak condition, ready to lead what could be one of the nation’s most dominant defensive lines. There’s a lot of optimism surrounding this unit as the 2025 season approaches.
Meanwhile, all eyes are on the other side of the ball. After a disappointing offensive showing in 2024, Michigan fans are eager to see what’s next—especially with the arrival of No. 1 overall quarterback and five-star recruit Bryce Underwood. But with uncertainty still lingering in the quarterback room and offensive scheme, the defense will once again be expected to carry the load early.
Benny knows the role the defense must play. If they can take pressure off the offense and allow it time to find its rhythm, then the defense has done its job. As the old saying goes, defense wins championships—and that’s exactly what Michigan is chasing this season.
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