Jake Guarnera on Protecting Bryce Underwood & Michigan’s 2026 Season | The Lab

<p>Jake Guarnera joins The Lab for an inside look at Michigan Football heading into the 2026 season.The Michigan offensive lineman breaks down the Wolverines’ progression through fall camp, the battles happening in the trenches, his transition to center and the responsibility of protecting quarterback Bryce Underwood. Guarnera explains why Underwood’s preparation has made that relationship easy, what Michigan’s offensive line expects from itself and why the Wolverines are ready to finally line up against somebody other than their own teammates.Jake also discusses Michigan defensive lineman Dom Nichols, his place on the Rimington Award watch list, Michigan’s championship expectations and the mentality required to navigate another difficult Big Ten schedule. He says his individual goal of becoming the best center possible ultimately feeds Michigan’s larger goals: competing for a Big Ten championship, reaching the College Football Playoff and fighting for a national championship.Then, the conversation shifts to Michigan Basketball and its European foreign tour, including what fans should actually take away from the Wolverines facing experienced international competition.</p>