Yes, it actually is possible that Michigan’s defense can get better. It may not be too long before we find out, either.

On Tuesday, cornerback Channing Stribling told the Detroit Free Press that his teammate, Jourdan Lewis, was practicing and expected the senior to play the B1G opener against Penn State.

“Everybody who gets hurt, no matter what player on the team, they’re always antsy to get back, even if they’re not ready to, he had to make sure he was ready,” Stribling said after Tuesday’s practice. “So he’s good now. Ready.”

Lewis has missed the first three weeks of the season with various injuries his back, quad and hamstring. His return would be a huge edition to an already stifling Wolverines unit that leads the conference in pass defense, allowing 156 yards per game.

In 2015, Lewis recorded 52 total tackles, including 3.5 for loss and intercepted two passes as Michigan went 10-3 in the first season under Jim Harbaugh. After the season, he was a First Team All-America selection.

His return would be a boost for the defense, especially as tougher competition comes to town with B1G play getting underway. Penn State brings a 2-1 record to Ann Arbor this Saturday.

In last year’s contest, Lewis recorded four tackles and a pass break-up to go along with 105 yards on kick returns.