Michigan LB Ernest Hausmann discusses new defensive scheme, Wink Martindale

Linebacker Ernest Hausmann is leading the way in the Michigan Wolverines’ preparations for the 2024 football season, taking on new challenges and honing the formula that has helped the team win championships.

Hausmann’s observations, which were included in the most recent episode of “In the Trenches,” offer a fascinating glimpse into his way of thinking and the team’s changing tactics. The third-year linebacker highlighted how Michigan’s mindset has changed as a result of the team’s current national title defense.

Hausmann remarked, “I’m mentally a little different going into this year.” “Because you are now looking down when you are at the top.” Everyone is vying for your attention.

“Therefore, you reflect on it using the model that was created for taking home a national title. That served as a guide for when you attempted to pursue it. We now have it, and we know how to get there. We are aware that trying it again will be far more difficult. Using that template, understanding what worked, and considering revisiting it with the question, “What can we do even better?” are now crucial. This year’s margin of error is significantly narrower than it was last year.

The Wolverines are undergoing significant changes on the defensive side with Wink Martindale’s new scheme. Hausmann provided insights into the challenges and opportunities that come with this transition.

According to Hausmann, “the communication side of things is the biggest difference with a new defense.” “A lot of the language they used in the past clearly comes with them when you have a new defensive coordinator and new system. The most important is your comprehension of the terminology. What does that signify? When is it put to use? What time should you say it? When are you not?

“And of course the style,” he went on. “What calls, or what actions with staff and other things like that, do they wish to take in various situations? Thus, that is the primary concern. Being here and playing spring ball has made me realize that this is a completely new defense. So it will be enjoyable.

Hausmann also took the time to commend Martindale for his approach to implementing the new plan, highlighting his readiness to take player input into account.

The former Nebraska transfer remarked, “What I appreciate about coach Wink is he allows players to have feedback and responses so that he can best gauge.” “Because, in the end, he’s seen it all.”

The possible effects of Maryland transfer linebacker Jaishawn Barham joining the Wolverines this offseason have also received a lot of attention. In considering his new position as the transfer linebacker’s mentor, Hausmann emphasized the value of his personal experiences adjusting to different systems.

“I know I provide a valuable resource for him being in that position and how to best learn this defense.” Hausmann said. “With a new defensive coordinator, things have changed completely. It’s a whole different scheme, a whole new defense. But also I’ve been in that position to how you adapt to a whole new system, new plan. Therefore, I had to use that thinking and come from the portal for myself. I have to do it once more now. I’m able to assist him as well when he needs it.

Hausmann wants to assist Barham to the same extent that he was assisted during the 2023 campaign. When discussing the influence of the recently deceased linebackers Michael Barrett and Junior Colson, Hausmann gave the two seasoned LBs a great deal of credit for their contributions to his own growth.

Hausmann stated, “They were pros from day one.” “They knew what they had to do to be the most successful players and teammates for this team because of how routine and structured everything they did every day was.”