The Michigan Wolverines secured a 30-10 win against a determined Fresno State team at the Big House on Saturday night. While the victory wasn’t particularly impressive, it sets the stage for next weekend’s matchup against the highly ranked Texas Longhorns.
Following the game, some fans may be reacting strongly to the team’s performance. Let’s explore a few of these reactions and their validity.
Concerns About the Offensive Line
The offensive line struggled during the first half, with new starting right guard Giovanni El-Hadi allowing a sack and starting center Dominick Giudice facing challenges, including a crucial third-and-one situation where Kalel Mullings was stopped at the line. At halftime, the Wolverines averaged only 2.2 yards per carry, with Donovan Edwards recording just five carries for three yards. By the end of the game, the average improved to 4.4 yards per rush, but the offensive line’s performance raised some eyebrows.
Despite this, it may be premature to conclude that the current offensive line isn’t as skilled as those of the previous three seasons. The 2021 line, which won the Joe Moore Award, also took time to develop cohesion. There is hope that coaches Sherrone Moore and Grant Newsome will address these issues, although whether that will occur before facing Texas remains uncertain.
Answer: Overreaction
Concerns About the Wide Receiver Group
The wide receivers had a lackluster performance against Fresno State, accumulating only six catches for 34 yards among Semaj Morgan, Tyler Morris, and Kendrick Bell. Additionally, there was a missed catch by Peyton O’Leary and an interception on a deep throw to Fred Moore. While the chances to make big plays were present, they did not capitalize.
Claiming this is the worst wide receiver group in recent history after just one game is an overreaction. Nonetheless, there is valid concern about the position. Both Morris and Morgan have shown potential in the past, so there is confidence in them, but their consistency is crucial for the team’s success.
Answer: An overreaction…for now
Colston Loveland’s Potential
Colston Loveland emerged as a standout tight end, drawing attention during the offseason due to his impressive sophomore year. He is the only returning starter on Michigan’s offense and is projected as a first-round pick in the upcoming NFL Draft.
Loveland’s performance solidified his status, as he recorded eight catches for 87 yards and a touchdown. His reliability makes him a key target for Michigan quarterbacks, and it’s realistic to expect him to lead the team in receiving yards.
Answer: Not an overreaction
Quarterback Situation
Davis Warren started the game for Michigan, but Alex Orji made a brief appearance, throwing the team’s first touchdown pass. Orji only completed one other pass, which was a poorly thrown ball.
Warren experienced some ups and downs, including an interception, but overall, he performed relatively well, earning a respectable grade from Pro Football Focus. He completed 15 of 25 passes for 118 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. While Warren admitted to feeling nervous at times, it’s understandable given the circumstances.
It’s too early to definitively say Michigan lacks a capable quarterback, but if performance does not improve before conference play, that viewpoint may gain traction.
Answer: Overreaction…for now