No. 14 Michigan football head coach Sherrone Moore has provided key updates ahead of the Wolverines’ highly anticipated Week 2 clash with No. 18 Oklahoma. Among the biggest headlines: linebacker Jaishawn Barham’s targeting ejection appeal has been denied, meaning he will miss the first half against the Sooners.
Additionally, Moore addressed the injury status of two other Wolverines, safety Rod Moore and tight end Hogan Hansen.
Appeal Denied: Jaishawn Barham Suspended for First Half vs Oklahoma
Barham, a junior linebacker and one of Michigan’s top defensive playmakers, was ejected in the third quarter of last week’s win over New Mexico for a targeting penalty on quarterback Jack Layne. Despite Michigan’s appeal, the Big Ten upheld the call, ruling that Barham must sit out the first half against Oklahoma.
The play itself was controversial —Â Barham appeared to make a clean tackle, keeping his head up and avoiding the crown of his helmet. Still, the officials ruled it targeting, leaving Michigan without their defensive leader for the remainder of that game and the opening half in Norman.
The targeting call against Michigan linebacker Jaishawn Barham has been upheld, coach Sherrone Moore said. Barham will miss the first half of this week’s game at Oklahoma. He was ejected in the third quarter against New Mexico after a hit on Lobos quarterback Jack Layne.
— Adam Rittenberg (@ESPNRittenberg) September 1, 2025
Barham’s absence is a significant storyline, as he started all 13 games last season and finished second on the team with 66 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss, and five quarterback hurries. He was named Defensive Player of the Game four times in 2023, including standout showings against Arkansas State, Minnesota, Michigan State, and rival Ohio State.
The silver lining for the Wolverines is the depth at linebacker. True freshman Cole Sullivan stepped in against New Mexico and shone, recording a sack and an interception in relief of Barham. Michigan will count on Sullivan and the rest of the unit to hold steady until Barham’s return in the second half.
Injury Updates: Rod Moore and Hogan Hansen
Beyond the Barham suspension, Sherrone Moore also shared updates on two key players battling injuries. Safety Rod Moore, a staple in Michigan’s secondary, is listed as questionable for the Oklahoma game.
His availability will likely be a game-time decision, and his absence would test Michigan’s defensive backfield depth against a high-powered Sooners offense.
Sherrone Moore says Rod Moore is questionable and Hogan Hansen probable for Oklahoma.
— Isaiah Hole (@isaiahhole) September 1, 2025
On the other hand, tight end Hogan Hansen received a more optimistic update. Moore called him “probable” for the trip to Norman, suggesting he should be available to add depth and versatility to the Wolverines’ offensive schemes.
KEEP READING: NFL Veteran Urges NCAA To Change Rule After Fans Protest Michigan LB Jaishawn Barham’s Ejection
Saturday’s matchup is one of the biggest games on a Week 2 schedule light on headline clashes. The Wolverines travel to Norman to face the Sooners in a contest that could shape the early College Football Playoff conversation.
While Michigan will be without Barham for the first half, the Wolverines’ depth and resilience will be tested against a dangerous Oklahoma squad eager to protect home field.
If the defense can weather the storm until Barham’s return, Michigan has the talent and coaching to leave Norman with a statement win. While the Week 2 AP Poll hasn’t been released yet, there is even a chance this could be a top-15 showdown.
