If Michigan football had the chance to dictate the start of its season, it would have closely mirrored its opening drive on Saturday night against Fresno State.
The series began with a run stopped by linebacker Jaishawn Barham, followed by a big hit from safety Makari Paige, and an interception by new starting nickel back Zeke Berry, who returned it to the Fresno State 31-yard line on the third play of the game.
The offense quickly took charge, with quarterback Davis Warren connecting with tight end Colston Loveland for a first down before a Semaj Morgan end-around—penalty included—set Michigan up for a first-and-goal at the 3-yard line.
Two plays later, Alex Orji, who lost the quarterback competition to Warren, entered the game. Known for his running ability, Orji executed a play-action pass instead, finding Donovan Edwards wide open for the opening touchdown, putting the No. 8 Wolverines on the path to a 30-10 victory over the Bulldogs.
However, Michigan faced challenges throughout the next two quarters. In a span of four drives, they managed just one first down, and at the midpoint of the second quarter, they found themselves ahead on the scoreboard but trailing in total yardage (88-42) and time of possession.
Fresno State showed resilience, orchestrating a seven-play, 75-yard touchdown drive at the start of the fourth quarter and getting within one possession. Michigan responded late in the fourth with a similarly long drive capped by an 18-yard touchdown pass from Warren to Loveland, creating some distance.
The defense showcased its prowess, displaying characteristics of one of the nation’s top units by forcing two turnovers, recording six tackles for loss, four pass breakups, and three sacks. Special teams also contributed, enabling Michigan to navigate Sherrone Moore’s head coaching debut effectively.
Next week, Michigan will face a tougher opponent, welcoming No. 4 Texas, who decisively defeated Colorado State 52-0 in their opener, at the Big House (noon, Fox), with ESPN’s College GameDay in attendance.
After the initial touchdown, Michigan’s offensive performance stagnated. Following the touchdown, their next four drives combined for just 15 yards in 12 plays. Warren’s early completions averaged less than eight yards, and a deep pass attempt that fell into an interception exemplified the offense’s struggles.
“We knew we had to keep fighting through the difficulties early on,” said running back Kalel Mullings, who sparked the offense toward the end of the first half with a 17-yard burst. Warren connected with Loveland for successive completions to set up a 44-yard field goal from Dominic Zvada, giving Michigan a 10-3 lead at halftime.
Loveland emerged as a key player, finishing with eight catches for 87 yards and a touchdown, being integral in steadying the offense. After halftime, Michigan managed to extend its lead but faced setbacks, ultimately settling for field goals instead of touchdowns.
Defensively, Michigan displayed an elite performance against Fresno’s offense. After Berry’s interception on the first possession, the defense forced four consecutive punts, showing disruptive energy throughout. Individual players like Rayshaun Benny and Josaiah Stewart made significant contributions, with Benny recording five tackles and Stewart’s pivotal sack on Fresno State’s second drive.
Despite some missed opportunities, the Wolverines’ defense finally clinched the game with Will Johnson’s interception return for a touchdown, solidifying their victory.
While Saturday’s performance wasn’t the overwhelming dominance seen in previous years, it exemplified coordinated efforts across all three phases of the game. As they prepare for the next week, the focus remains on continued improvement throughout the season.