Observations on the first half with TCU, 6-21

Michigan gained two first half red zones, but came up empty with no points. TCU gained two red zones for 14 points. The Horned Frogs got 7 points off the first Wolverine turnover, and stopped Michigan at the half yard line the the second turnover. Michigan could not convert the TCU turnover into points, they were a half yard shy.

Offense was putrid! The Wolverines gained 221 yards with 73 on the ground after 54 on the first play of the game; J.J. McCarthy was 10 of 16 for 148 yards with one interception and one sack. We were on of 7 in 3rd and 4th down conversions with 10 first downs. Donovan Edwards ran 14 times for 90 yards. Colston Loveland caught 3 passes for 37 yards. Roman Wilson caught 2 passes for 59 yards including a 50 yarder after it was first ruled a TD. TCU's 3-3-5 defense has outfoxed us, and we haven't adjusted well; the Horned Frogs have 6 tackles for loss to go with 2 turnovers forced.

Defense was also rotten! TCU gained 202 total yards with 113 on the ground and 11 first downs with 4 of 7 in 3rd down conversions; Max Duggan hit 7 of 16 passes for 89 yards and a TD, and was intercepted by Rod Moore. Duggan ran 8 times for 30 yards after one sack, and scored a TD. Kendre Miller ran 7 times for 56 yards. We are not getting enough of a pass rush on Duggan; our edge guys aren't getting it done. Michigan held a 3:30 time of possession advantage, but it only resulted in 2 more offensive plays. Rod Moore has 6 tackles to lead the defense; Makari Paige has 5 tackles including a sack.

Special Teams were the only part of Michigan's game that worked well with Jake Moody hitting both field goals including a 59 yarder that set a school record. Brad Robbins punted 3 times with 2 downed inside the 20. A.J. Henning ran a punt return back for 16 yards.

A Second Half Comeback would be nothing short of a miracle! They would need to completely silence the TCU offense, and have a super solid offensive second half with no mistakes or turnovers to prevail. The coaches really did not have this team prepared, and the play calling was horrid, particularly the 4th and goal with Loveland running a run-pass option. Also, on the second play of the game going for a pass to Loveland after a 54 yard run through the middle by Edwards. Players don't have any "fire" in their eyes! The motivation to win and dominate has to be there for this team to succeed. Go Blue!