As the 2026 college football season approaches, the Michigan Wolverines are gearing up for what promises to be an exciting fall. Among the players who will be pivotal to the team's success, one name stands out: Andrew Sprague, the 11th-ranked offensive lineman. But why is Sprague so important, and what makes him a key player for the Wolverines? Let's take a closer look.
The Case for Andrew Sprague
Sprague, a 6-foot-8, 315-pound redshirt sophomore from Kansas City, Missouri, has already made a name for himself on the Michigan offensive line. In 2025, he started all but four games at right tackle, earning honorable mention All-Big Ten honors for his solid performance. His pass-blocking grade of 84th out of 310 FBS offensive tackles and his run-blocking grade of 60th in the group are impressive, and they highlight his reliability and versatility.
What makes Sprague particularly fascinating is his potential to become a star. At 6-foot-8 and 315 pounds, he still has room to add strength to his frame, and his experience as a redshirt freshman gives him an edge over many of his peers. Moreover, the new Michigan offensive line coach, Jim Harding, has a proven track record for developing strong pass-protecting tackles, and Sprague is likely to be at the top of his list.
The Competition
However, Sprague is not the only offensive lineman in the running for a starting spot. Players like Blake Frazier, Andrew Babalola, and Evan Link are also competing for time at tackle. In fact, Babalola made this year's top 20 despite not playing a single collegiate snap, while Frazier made it inside this year's top 10. This competition is healthy for the team, as it ensures that the Wolverines have depth and options at the position.
The Fan Perspective
Fans have also recognized Sprague's potential, ranking him 11th in the fan ballot. He received four top-three votes, tied for ninth on the team, and was a common choice in the 5-11 range, with 41.7 percent of voters slotting him there. However, with Babalola and Frazier earning a healthy amount of votes, Sprague was left off of 15.7 percent of ballots, keeping him at No. 12.
The Expert's Take
As an expert, I believe that Sprague's ranking of 11th is well-deserved. He is experienced, decently proven, and plays a key position for the Wolverines. His potential to become a star this fall could have a significant impact on the team's success. However, the competition at the position is fierce, and the Wolverines are not equipped to replace him if an injury arises. Nevertheless, the more potential stars who can step up along the offensive line, the better for the Wolverines.
In conclusion, Andrew Sprague is a key player for the Michigan Wolverines in the 2026 season. His size, experience, and potential make him a valuable asset, and his ranking of 11th is a testament to his importance. As the season unfolds, we will see if Sprague can live up to the hype and become a star for the Wolverines.
