Michigan football had a promising start to its season with a solid opening series on Saturday night against Fresno State. The defense set the tone right away with linebacker Jaishawn Barham stuffing a run on first down, followed by a big hit from safety Makari Paige and an interception by new nickel back Zeke Berry, who returned the ball to the Fresno State 31-yard line.
Quarterback Davis Warren quickly took advantage, connecting with tight end Colston Loveland for a first down before a play that saw Semaj Morgan take an end-around, setting the Wolverines up with a first-and-goal from the 3-yard line. Alex Orji, who lost the starting quarterback position to Warren, entered the game and cleverly executed a play-action pass to Donovan Edwards for the opening touchdown. This momentum propelled the No. 8 Wolverines to a convincing 30-10 victory over the Bulldogs.
However, Michigan’s strong start was followed by a period of struggle, as the offense managed only one first down over four subsequent drives. At halftime, although they led on the scoreboard, the Wolverines were significantly outgained in total yards, being 88-42. Fresno State mounted a solid 75-yard touchdown drive to start the fourth quarter, narrowing the score before Michigan responded with a drive of its own.
The Michigan defense, regarded as one of the nation’s best, showcased its prowess by forcing two turnovers, recording six tackles for loss, four pass breakups, and three sacks throughout the game.
Next week, the Wolverines will face a tougher challenge as they prepare to host No. 4 Texas, which won its opening game against Colorado State by a score of 52-0.
Despite the victory, Michigan’s offense showed inconsistencies early in the game. Following the initial touchdown, the Wolverines’ next four drives only managed to gain 15 yards. Warren struggled with accuracy, but the team managed to find some rhythm toward the end of the first half, leading to a field goal that gave them a 10-3 lead.
Loveland emerged as a standout player, leading the team with eight catches for 87 yards and a touchdown. The ground game also picked up speed in the fourth quarter, particularly when Mullings broke off significant runs.
Defensively, Michigan was strong, with players like Rayshaun Benny and Josaiah Stewart making impact plays. The unit successfully thwarted Fresno State’s attempts to gain momentum, and Will Johnson capped off the victory with an 86-yard interception return for a touchdown.
Overall, while Michigan’s performance was not as dominating as in previous years, the collective effort from all phases of the game indicates room for growth as they prepare to improve in Week 2.