The 2026 college football season is fast approaching, and Michigan fans are already gearing up for what promises to be an exciting year. The question on everyone's mind is: who will lead the Wolverines in rushing yards? The recent poll on Maize n Brew reveals a clear favorite among fans, but the story behind this prediction is more nuanced than it first appears.
The Clear Favorite: Jordan Marshall
Jordan Marshall, the clear starter for Michigan, has already demonstrated his talent and earned the respect of teammates and coaches. In the 2025 season, he accumulated an impressive 1,052 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns in just 16 games and 181 carries. However, Marshall's leadership in rushing yards is contingent on his ability to stay injury-free throughout the entire season. This is a common concern among fans, as Marshall has yet to complete a full season without injury.
Anywindow, a fan, highlights the importance of Marshall's health, stating, 'I don’t see how anyone can vote for anyone other than Marshall. Kuz doesn’t get enough YAC, and we haven’t seen Hiter against a first-string defense yet. Also, it looks like Marshall will get at least 60% of the carries, especially in bigger games.' This sentiment underscores the critical role Marshall's health plays in his leadership role.
The Rising Star: Savion Hiter
Despite Marshall's dominance, the buzz surrounding freshman Savion Hiter is undeniable. Hiter, a five-star prospect, has generated excitement among coaches and fans alike. His potential to heavily contribute this fall is a topic of discussion, with some even envisioning a split in carries between him and Marshall. Acala., a fan, predicts a 60/30 or 50/40 split, with Hiter breaking a few more big runs. This optimism reflects the belief that Hiter's talent and potential could make him a significant factor in Michigan's rushing attack.
The Established Presence: Bryson Kuzdzal
While Marshall and Hiter are the stars of the show, Bryson Kuzdzal, the RB3, is not to be overlooked. Kuzdzal stepped up for the Wolverines at the end of the 2025 season, accumulating 326 rushing yards and four touchdowns in nine games. However, with Marshall's health and Hiter's potential, Kuzdzal's opportunities may be limited. Fans acknowledge his contributions but recognize that his role may be more supportive than leading the team in rushing yards.
The Bottom Line
The poll results indicate a strong belief that Jordan Marshall will lead Michigan in rushing yards in 2026. However, the narrative behind this prediction is complex. Marshall's health, Hiter's potential, and Kuzdzal's role all contribute to a dynamic rushing attack. As the season unfolds, fans will eagerly witness the development of these players and the impact they have on Michigan's success. The story of Michigan's rushing leaders in 2026 promises to be an intriguing one, with the potential for surprises and the evolution of these talented athletes.
