Observations on the first half with Purdue, 20-6

Michigan converted 4 red zone trips for 20 points; Purdue managed 6 points in two red zone gifts from Michigan. The Boilermakers scored 3 points off one Wolverine turnover.

Offense gained 243 yards with only 42 on the ground; the Wolverines were 4 of 8 in 3rd down conversions. J.J. McCarthy was 14 of 22 for 201 yards, but was sacked twice for -22 yards. Blake Corum ran 9 times for 28 yards and 2 TDs; he also caught a 4 yard pass. Roman Wilson caught 4 passes for 61 yards. Donovan Edwards ran twice for 2 yards, and caught 3 passes for 41 yards. Cornelius Johnson caught 2 passes for 39 yards, and ran once for 14 yards. Colston Loveland caught 2 passes for 29 yards. Tyler Morris caught 2 passes for 27 yards. Harbaugh really blew it with the 4th down try late in the 2nd quarter; it gave Purdue the ball in scoring range; it was a stupid coaching mistake for sure. Just punt the ball and play defense against a team that isn't moving the ball against us. It is not like we were behind and desperate to score.

Defense allowed Purdue 131 total yards with 60 on the ground; the Boilermakers only converted one of 8 in 3rd down. Hudson Card hit only 5 of 16 for 71 yards with an interception by Will Johnson that led to one red zone; Card also ran 3 times for 27 yards. Tyrone Tracy had 6 carries for 23 yards. Michigan dominated time of possession by almost 6 minutes and that led to 11 more offensive plays. Mikari Paige led the defense with 5 tackles.

Special Teams allowed Purdue one score when Quentin Johnson was hit by a punt return, and the Boilermakers recovered at the 34; it resulted in a field goal. Purdue punted 5 times. James Turner hit both field goals, but Purdue also hit two field goals.

We will need to come out in the 3rd quarter, and score immediately; otherwise, it could end up being a defensive struggle the rest of the way. Go Blue!