The "2017 Michigan Defense" under Don Brown was a showcase of aggressive, high-pressure defensive strategies that had positioned Michigan as one of the top defensive teams in the nation. This playbook detailed a scheme heavily reliant on man-to-man coverage, frequent blitzing, and an overall philosophy of solving problems with aggression.

Brown's defense was versatile, commonly aligning in a 4-3 or 3-4 base but adaptable to different formations like a 3-3-5 or 4-2-5 to counter the spread offenses prevalent in college football. In 2017, this defense ranked 3rd in total defense, allowing only 264.4 yards per game, and was second against the pass with 162.5 yards allowed per game. They excelled in creating havoc, leading to high rankings in tackles for loss, sacks, and forcing turnovers. Key performances included a dominant display against Florida to open the season, showcasing their blitz packages. However, the defense faced criticism for underperforming against teams like Penn State and Ohio State. Central to this defense's success were players like linebacker Devin Bush, known for his speed and coverage, defensive end Chase Winovich for his relentless pass rushing, and safety Khaleke Hudson.

The secondary, with players like Lavert Hill, was adept at executing press man coverage. Brown's coaching was about not just the scheme but teaching players to read and react pre-snap, which was crucial for the defense's complex execution. This defense's influence extended beyond Michigan, with other coaches studying Brown's methods to replicate Michigan's success, though there were calls for adaptation as teams began to counter his aggressive style more effectively in subsequent years. This playbook is a deep dive into one of the most respected defenses in recent college football, offering insights into how to build a disciplined, fast, and hard-hitting defensive unit.