Benny Patterson III is gearing up for his second year with the University of Michigan football program, bringing a blend of size, experience and hometown pride to the roster. A standout at Castle High School in Indiana, he earned All‑State honors with 70 tackles, seven sacks and three fumble recoveries before moving from South Carolina to Indiana for his senior season.
At Michigan he contributed primarily on special teams, appearing in five games and earning scout‑team Defensive Player of the Week honors before a matchup against Nebraska. After adding roughly 25 to 30 pounds during his freshman year, he now lists at 270 pounds and is working to carve out a larger defensive role.
A New Direction in Ann Arbor
The Wolverines have a new head coach, Kyle Whittingham, who arrived after two decades at Utah, bringing a fresh philosophy to the program. Patterson’s physical development and continued refinement of technique have positioned him as a candidate for increased snaps on the defensive line.
Off the field, Patterson gave back to the community that shaped him by organizing the inaugural BP3 youth football camp in Castle, offering free instruction to more than 100 children aged six to thirteen. The camp highlighted his commitment to mentorship and local outreach.
The season opens at home against Western Michigan on September 25, a game that will serve as a litmus test for Patterson’s push for more snaps and greater impact on the defensive line. His goal is clear: increase his role and help the Wolverines succeed in his second year.