Michigan right tackle Andrew Sprague met with reporters on Thursday afternoon following a fall camp practice session to break down the development of the offensive line, his personal physical transformation, and his thoughts on his teammates and coaching staff.
Sprague emphasized that the offensive line is operating with a completely different mindset and level of confidence compared to last season. He noted that the group has avoided the frustrating, unproductive practice days that popped up a year ago. A major catalyst for this leap forward is the work done under strength and conditioning coach Doug Elisaia. Sprague shared that he personally shed over 20 pounds of bad fat during the offseason, allowing him to move significantly better on the field. Across the entire unit, heavy lifting coupled with relentless conditioning has paid massive dividends.
The mental side of conditioning has been a core focus for the Wolverines upfront. Sprague explained that the strength staff constantly pushes the room through heavy weights, sled pushes, and grueling running drills designed to build stamina for late-game situations. He mentioned a key principle the staff preaches: when an athlete feels like their body is about to shut down, they actually still have 40 percent left in the tank. Sprague noted that the offensive line embraces that mindset so they can execute at a high level when the fourth quarter arrives.
Sprague also had high praise for offensive line coach Jim Harding, describing him as a demanding coach who acts like a father figure to the players. He joked that Coach Harding texts the group constantly, even in the middle of the night, sending middle of the night messages in all caps like GREAT DECISIONS to keep the unit aligned on upcoming drill work.
Looking at individual position groups, Sprague spoke glowingly about center Jake Guarnera, predicting that Guarnera will emerge as one of the best centers in the country due to his quick mental processing and athleticism. He also detailed the intense competition taking place at right guard alongside him, highlighting the chemistry he has built with both Brady Norton and Nathan Efobi.
When asked about the offense as a whole, Sprague expressed ultimate trust in quarterback Bryce Underwood. He noted that Underwood has taken his leadership and film study to another level this fall, looking comfortable stepping up in the pocket and making throws. Sprague added that pass protection has been a heavy focus during camp to ensure Underwood stays clean, while giving credit to Michigan defensive linemen like Dominic Nichols for sharpening his skills in tough one-on-one pass rush drills.