The most painful blow came financially. According to ESPN’s Pete Thamel, Michigan will lose roughly $30 million, with at least $20 million of that tied to a two-year postseason fine. That’s a big number, but Thamel noted the Wolverines could easily offset it with about $25 million in College Football Playoff revenue changes coming in 2026.

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.

Additionally, Michigan will see a 25 percent reduction in official visits and face a 14-week ban on recruiting communications, a severe blow to head coach Sherrone Moore as he prepares for his second season in charge.

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.

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.

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.

Wisconsin football failed to reach bowl eligibility last season, breaking a 23-year streak. ESPN analysts predict Wisconsin will again miss a bowl game in the 2025 season. The Badgers face a challenging schedule including Alabama,

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.