[2] As a sophomore in 1928, Wheeler started three games at the halfback position for Michigan's varsity football team.

He demonstrated his versatility by playing all three backfield positions (quarterback, halfback and fullback) for the undefeated 1930 Michigan Wolverines football team that compiled a record of 8–0–1.

Wheeler and sophomore quarterback Harry Newman were sent into the game in the second quarter and led Michigan to a come-from-behind victory and a final score of 14–13.

[7] In the seventh week of the 1930 season, Wheeler scored the only touchdown in Michigan's 7–0 win over Minnesota in the annual competition for the Little Brown Jug.

"[8] Michigan head coach Harry Kipke praised Wheeler's performance during the 1930 season as follows:"He was our offensive spark, as well as our best ground gainer.

Wheeler's punt handling, run-backs and interception of passes provided the brightest bits of ball lugging Michigan showed to the conference this season.

[5][10] He also finished second behind Wes Fesler in the voting for the Chicago Tribune Silver Football trophy awarded to the Most Valuable Player in the Big Ten Conference.