As the Michigan Wolverines gear up for their highly anticipated showdown against the Washington Huskies, a looming question hangs in the air: will star running back Justice Haynes take the field? The Wolverines’ pregame availability report has fans and analysts alike on the edge of their seats, detailing which players are sidelined and whose status remains uncertain. But here’s where it gets controversial: Haynes, a powerhouse in the backfield, is listed as questionable due to a nagging 'side' injury—and his absence could reshape the game’s dynamics.
In a bold move, Michigan released the report ahead of their home clash, shedding light on key absences. Among those definitively OUT are starting tight end Marlin Klein, reserve running back Micah Ka’apana, and reserve quarterback Davis Warren. Klein, despite missing the season’s second game, has been a standout with 12 receptions for 142 yards and a touchdown. Adding to the roster woes, wide receiver I’Marion Stewart, running back Donovan Johnson, linebacker Jaydon Hood, offensive tackle Andrew Babalola, edge rusher Devon Baxter, and wide receiver CJ Charleston are all out for the season—a stark reminder of the team’s injury struggles.
And this is the part most people miss: the QUESTIONABLE list includes not just Haynes, but also starting defensive tackle Trey Pierce, potential starting guard Brady Norton, and reserve linebacker Nathaniel Owusu-Boateng. Earlier this week, head coach Sherrone Moore cautiously labeled Haynes as questionable, noting, ‘There’s a chance he’ll play, but we’ll see how he progresses.’ Haynes, who entered the season as a top-five power-conference running back in rushing yards (130.8 per game), yards per carry (7.7), and rushing touchdowns (8), failed to hit the 100-yard mark for the first time last Saturday against USC. His absence would leave a gaping hole in Michigan’s offense.
Here’s the kicker: if Haynes sits, Jordan Marshall is expected to step up, with Bryson Kuzdzal and freshman Jasper Parker waiting in the wings. ‘Jasper has shown flashes of brilliance,’ Moore said, ‘He’s a big, strong kid with a lot of potential.’ But can they fill Haynes’ shoes? That’s the million-dollar question.
Meanwhile, Pierce’s status is slightly less uncertain. Despite a stellar start to the season—15 tackles, nine run stops, and seven quarterback pressures—he uncharacteristically missed three tackles against USC. Moore remains cautiously optimistic: ‘He’s played so well, but we’ll see where he’s at.’
As kickoff approaches shortly after noon on FOX, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Will Michigan’s depth prevail, or will Washington capitalize on the Wolverines’ weakened roster? And what does this mean for the team’s playoff aspirations? One thing’s for sure: this game is a must-watch—and the comments section is bound to explode with debate. What’s your take? Can Michigan overcome these setbacks, or is Washington poised for an upset?
