Observations on the first half with Notre Dame, 17-0

Michigan converted 3 red zone opportunities for 17 points; Notre Dame gained no red zones trips. The Wolverines also converted an Irish turnover into 3 points.

Offense got pumped up to run the ball, and gained 11 first downs, and 167 rushing yards in 34 attempts for 2 TDs. Michigan is 3 of 8 in 3rd down conversions. Zach Charbonnet led the Wolverines with 12 rushes for 69 yards and TDs; Hassan Haskins gained 73 yards in 11 carries, and Shea Patterson scampered for a net of 18 yards in 8 carries with 3 fumbles along the way. Mike Sainristil and Ronnie Bell caught passes, but Patterson only attempted 4 throws. Michigan had a 5 minute time of possession advantage which resulted in 10 more offensive plays.

Defense held the Irish to 3 first downs, and 52 yards in net offense in 28 plays; Notre Dame was 2 of 10 in 3rd and 4th down conversions. Ian Book was 4 of 13 for 32 yards. Cam McGrone has been very active with 6 tackles. We had 3 quarterback hits on Ian Gold. Gray is having trouble covering Claypool, but trying to hang in there.

Special Teams is huge in this game with field position as a constant key. Will Hart punted 3 times with one blocked; fortunately, Notre Dame turned a great opportunity after the block at the Michigan 30 into a fumble which the Wolverines recovered. Jake Moody hit his only field goal, and kicked off 4 times with great kickoff coverage. Donovan Peoples-Jones had 2 punt returns for 16 yards.

Second Half will start with the Wolverines with the ball. We need to play good field position football, and continue to control the game on the ground to gain the win. We continue to control the line of scrimmage and we win. Go Blue!