Observations on the first half with Penn State, 13-21

Michigan gained 13 points off two red zone trips, and Penn State gained 14 points off their two red zones; the Wolverines scored 6 points off one Nittany Lion turnover.

Offense gained 7 first downs, 141 net yards with 78 on the ground; we were 2 of 7 in 3rd and 4th down conversions. John O'Korn was 7 of 9 for 63 yards with a 23 yarder to Kekoa Crawford to set up the last red zone. Karan Higdon had 12 carries for 31 yards and a TD. Ty Isaac had 2 carries for 11 yards for the other TD. Donovan Peoples-Jones caught an 18 yarder, and Eddie McDoom got a 13 yarder. We had a minute time of possession advantage, but Penn State had 5 more offensive plays. Jason Cabinda had 6 tackles, and Marcus Allen got 5 to lead the Nittany Lion defense.

The Wolverines forgot to bring their defense. Penn State gained 14 first downs, 303 net yards with 144 on the ground; they were 3 of 6 in 3rd and 4th down conversions. Trace McSorley was 10 of 18 for 159 yards, and ran 5 times for 26 yards and a TD; he was sacked once, and threw an interception to David Long. Saquon Barkley had 11 carries for 109 yards for 2 TDs including a 69 yard scamper on the 3rd play of the game for quick TD. Our safeties look horrid!!! Both Josh Metellus and Tyree Kinnel are getting burned on both runs and passes, they are both playing very poorly. I'd like to see Jordan Glasgow in at Strong Safety over Metellus. Devin Bush has also played poorly at MIKE. Mike McCray and Khaleke Hudson lead the defense with 4 tackles each.

Special Teams play continues to be strong on kickoff coverage in 3 kicks. Quinn Nordin missed an extra point. Brad Robbins punted 4 times for a 42.2 yard average. Ambry Thomas had a nice 43 yard kickoff return.

Second Half has to have a better defensive effort if we are to have a shot in the 4th quarter! I'm not optimistic, but hopeful. Go Blue!