Observations on the first half with Illinois, 7-3

Michigan gained two red zones for 7 points, and a fumble turnover by Blake Corum resulted in no points from Illinois. The Illini gained 3 points from one red zone

Offense started well, but Illinois adjusted; the Wolverines gained 221 yards with 123 on the ground. Michigan could only gain 9 first downs, and were 4 of 8 in 3rd and 4th down conversions. Blake Corum accounted for 107 yards on 17 carries for a TD plus 2 receptions for 39 yards, but left the game with a lower leg injury; he may or may not return for the second half. J.J. McCarthy is 7 of 12 for 98 yards. Donovan Edwards is out, and C.J. Stokes has 2 carries for 20 yards. Ronnie Bell has 3 receptions for 44 yards. Michigan gained a 4:30 time of possession advantage resulting in 2 more offensive plays. Kendall Smith and Keith Randolph have 4 tackles each for Illinois.

Defense started well with forcing the Illini into two "3 and outs." Illinois gained 140 total yards with 63 on the ground, and 8 first downs; Chase Brown has 15 carries for 48 yards. Michigan held Illinois to 3 of 7 in 3rd and 4th down conversions. Tommy Devito is 11 of 14 for 77 yards. Casey Washington and Isaiah Williams have 4 receptions each. Mike Sainristil, Mason Graham, and Kris Jenkins led the Wolverine defense with 4 tackles each.

Special Teams had slight advantage to Illinois as they hit a field goal. Brad Robbins punted 3 times for a 28.7 yard average with 2 downed inside the 20. Ronnie Bell had a 5 yard punt return as A.J. Henning is out today. Illinois punted twice for a 54.5 yard average, and one downed inside the 20.

Second Half should be a low scoring nailbiter. Hopefully, Corum will be able to return. Go Blue!