Some sophomores, who burst onto the scene during their freshman season, can be known to have sophomore slumps. But there are also freshmen who came on late in 2024, who are expected to take major leaps in 2025.

Outside of Connor Stalions, if anyone has been the face of Michigan football's 'signgate' saga, it's been ESPN reporter Pete Thamel. The one reporting on the allegations throughout the process, he became a villain to fans in Ann Arbor and a hero to those in Columbus and East Lansing.

The University of Michigan's football program has officially been sanctioned following an NCAA investigation into the sign-stealing scandal involving former assistant Connor Stalions.

Coming up with a list on Wednesday, ranking the top second-year breakout players in 2025 across college football, Marshall ended up being ranked second of the 11 players who made the cut, just behind projected OSU QB starter Julian Sayin.

Dominic Zvada was snubbed by college football’s top kicking award last season, but ESPN continues to recognize his talent. The Michigan senior made the outlet’s All-America team, released on Monday, as the first-team placekicker.

ESPN analysts predict Wisconsin will again miss a bowl game in the 2025 season. The Badgers face a challenging schedule including Alabama, Oregon, Ohio State, and Michigan. Wisconsin's bowl hopes likely hinge on upsetting one or more of these top-ranked opponents.

Earlier this week, Billy Tucker of ESPN.com named his top 10 freshmen for the 2025 season and Syracuse cornerback/wide receiver Demetres Samuel Jr was ranked 8th on the list.

Despite the buzz around Michigan freshman quarterback Bryce Underwood, the Wolverines haven’t named their QB1 yet. During an appearance on The Pat McAfee Showon Thursday, ESPN’s Pete Thamel pulled back the curtain on Underwood’s status in Michigan’s quarterback room.