Observations on the first half with Northwestern, 10-7

Michigan comes up with 3 red zones, but only converts two for 10 points; Northwestern gained no red zones, but hit a 75 yard TD run. The Wildcats didn't have time to score off the Wolverine turnover.

Offense gained 17 first downs, 146 yards on the ground and 267 total yards while dominating time of possession by 16 minutes which gave them 34 more offensive plays; however, they couldn't take advantage it. Cade McNamara hit 19 of 24 for 121 yards, and was sacked once; the Wolverines converted 9 of 14 3rd and 4th down conversions. Hassan Haskins carried 12 times for 72 yards; Blake Corum ran 12 times for 63 yards and a TD plus had 3 receptions for 18 yards.. Erick All caught 5 passes for 34 yards. Cornelius Johnson caught 3 passes for 30 yards. The red zone turnover by Mike Sainristil really changed the complexion of this affair. The Wildcats were led by Coco Azema and Bryce Gallagher with 10 tackles each on their "bend, but don't break" defense.

Defense forced Northwestern into two "3 and outs" until Evan Hull scampered 75 yards on a "soft" defense for a TD to put the Wildcats in the game. Safety R.J. Moten was blocked, and our linebackers didn't fill any gaps on the TD run. Ryan Hilinski was 6 of 12 for 45 yards. The Wildcasts could only muster 3 first downs with 113 net yards in 19 plays; they were one of 5 in 3rd down conversions. Josh Ross, Aidan Hutchinson, Mazi Smith, and Daxton Hill has 2 tackles each; Hutchinson and Ojabo combined for a sack.

Special Teams was led by a Jake Moody field goal giving us a narrow halftime lead. Northwestern's special teams have been excellent with holding A.J. Henning to zero yards on two punt returns, and pinning the Wolverines at the two on one of their 4 punts.

Second Half could be close if we don't score a TD on the first drive. Josh Gattis has been terrible at play calling in the red zone; hopefully the rumors about his exit in 2022 will become a reality. Northwestern was well-prepared for this game by Coach Fitzgerald, and his players have responded well. It will take a great second half effort to subdue the Wildcats. Go Blue!