Observations on the first half with Illinois, 28-7

Michigan converted 3 red zones visits for 14 points; Illinois scored a TD in the last minute of the half, but had no red zones. Illinois was unable to score off one Wolverine turnover.

Offense gained 16 first downs, and 352 yards on 34 plays with 202 on the ground. Shea Patterson hit 7 of 12 for 150 yards and 2 TDs to Luke Schoonmaker and Nick Eubanks; he was 3 of 5 in 3rd down conversions. Ronnie Bell caught 3 passes for 98 yards. Zach Charbonnet gained 108 yards on 14 carries for a TD, and Hassan Haskins gained 68 yards on 4 carries for a TD. Tru Wilson gained 30 yards on 6 carries. Christian Turner has not played.

Defense was solid until the last drive as they stopped Illinois with 5 "3 and outs." Illinois gained 9 first downs, 133 net yards on 35 plays with 45 on the ground; they were zero for 7 in 3rd down conversions. Matt Robinson hit 8 of 12 passes for 88 yards and a TD. Josh Imatorbhebhe had 3 catches for 53 yards and a 23 yard TD. Jordan Glasgow was the leading tackler with 6 stops. Cameron McGrone had 5 tackles, and Brad Hawkins had 4 tackles. Josh Uche got a sack and two other tackles.

Special Teams were not good! Quinn Nordin missed an easy field goal. Ronnie Bell and Donovan Peoples-Jones made numerous poor decisions on punt returns that cost significant field position losses. Time of possession was about even, and both teams were penalized for unsportsmanlike conduct.

Second Half will be a breeze! Go Blue!