The Michigan Wolverines faced a tough challenge against a determined Fresno State team on Saturday night at the Big House, securing a 30-10 win. While the performance was far from perfect, it sets the stage for a matchup against the No. 4 Texas Longhorns next weekend.
Due to the subpar performance, some fans may be reacting strongly to the Wolverines’ Week 1 display. Here’s a look at a few of those reactions and their validity.
Concerns over the offensive line
The offensive line struggled significantly in the first half. New right guard Giovanni El-Hadi allowed a sack in the second quarter, and starting center Dominick Giudice faced pressure on a critical third-and-one play, resulting in no gain for Kalel Mullings. The Wolverines averaged just 2.2 yards per carry at halftime, with Donovan Edwards managing only five carries for three yards. By the game’s end, the team improved to an average of 4.4 yards per rush, but the offensive line’s play raised concerns.
Nonetheless, it’s premature to judge this line as inferior to previous seasons. The 2021 offensive line also needed time to jell. There is optimism that coaches Sherrone Moore and Grant Newsome will make necessary adjustments, though it’s uncertain if it will happen before facing Texas.
Answer: Overreaction
Issues with the wide receiver group
The wide receivers had a disappointing outing against Fresno State, combining for only six catches for 34 yards among Semaj Morgan, Tyler Morris, and Kendrick Bell. There were also missed opportunities, including a dropped pass by Peyton O’Leary and an interception resulting from a targeted deep shot to Fred Moore. While it may sound like an overreaction to label this receiving corps as the worst in recent history after just one game, concerns remain valid. There have been glimpses of potential from Morris and Morgan, but the overall group lacks proven consistency. Their performance will be crucial in the upcoming games to quell this worry.
Answer: An overreaction…for now
Colston Loveland’s impact
Colston Loveland emerged as a standout tight end and a focal point of discussion leading into the season. He had an impressive sophomore year and is the only offensive starter returning. Loveland’s skills have him projected as a first-round NFL Draft pick for the upcoming spring.
His strong performance against Fresno State, where he recorded eight catches for 87 yards and a touchdown, confirms the expectations surrounding him. For quarterbacks, he is clearly the most reliable target, and it wouldn’t be surprising if he finishes the season leading the team in receiving yards.
Answer: Not an overreaction
Quarterback situation at Michigan
Davis Warren started the game, but Alex Orji entered as a substitute and threw the season’s first touchdown. Orji’s effectiveness was limited, with only one other throw that fell harmlessly to the ground.
Although Warren threw an interception, he demonstrated solid play, earning a respectable Pro Football Focus grade of 69.7, ranking him as one of the top offensive players. He completed 15 of 25 passes for 118 yards, with one touchdown. Warren acknowledged feeling some nerves during the game, which is understandable given the circumstances. While it may be easy to declare an absence of a solid quarterback, further improvement in the position’s play will be necessary before concluding about the team’s quarterback situation.
Answer: Overreaction…for now