In the Trenches: Henning Talks Strong Start, Offensive Evolution, Returning Punts
9/22/2021 9:00:00 AM | Football, Features
On this week's episode of the "In the Trenches" podcast, Jon Jansen catches up with sophomore wide receiver A.J. Henning, who discusses his and the team's strong start, the evolution of the offense in 2021, and what he focuses on as a punt returner.
By Brian Boesch
A college football season is relentless. As soon as a game ends, the focus turns to the next challenge. Teams must overcome injuries, no matter how important the injured player may be.
Michigan's 3-0 start has captured plenty of local and national attention, and deservedly so. The Wolverines never trailed during the non-conference portion of their schedule. However, one of the early-season storylines -- the season-ending injury to wide receiver Ronnie Bell -- is still front of mind for the team and, in particular, the wide receiver room.
"It's a thing that just makes the room even stronger. Everybody wants to come together and do it for Ronnie," sophomore A.J. Henning said on this week's edition of the "In the Trenches" podcast. "I've said it before -- he's like the heart and soul of the wide receiver room, and he keeps other people going."
According to Henning, Bell has transitioned from an on-field fixture to an extra coach, fitting for a young man named by his teammates as a captain this season. However, Bell's absence is still a significant one come Saturdays, which is why Henning's early-season performance has been so important.
In Saturday's victory over Northern Illinois, Henning took advantage of every touch. His lone rush went for 26 yards, and his lone catch yielded 24 yards. The Frankfort, Ill., native has also taken full advantage of his punt return role, averaging 15 yards per return against the Huskies.
Replacing Bell and having success, though, requires a comprehensive approach to the game. Henning is just as excited about discussing blocking as his recent production with the ball in his hand.
"We take great pride in the receiver room, especially, in perimeter blocking. That's just a big point of emphasis. We spend a lot of time on it in practice," Henning said. "Taking the little details from practice and carrying them over to Saturdays and the game -- that's been huge."
This mindset, which is permeating the team, has propelled Michigan into the Big Ten portion of its schedule with plenty of momentum. However, the Wolverines have not looked ahead at all. Following each game, head coach Jim Harbaugh has reiterated that his team will not "fall in love with its stuff" despite its most recent victory. Henning has seen that come to life each week.
"Once we come in and evaluate the film of the last game, that's thrown out the window. You correct the mistakes from last game, and then you look at how you can get better," Henning said. "We've done some great things, and we've done some things not so great. Everybody's looking for ways to get better on this team, and that's what I love so much about this team.
"I know this team is just going to keep building. It's been truly exciting."
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