Observations on the loss to USC, 13-31
USC gained 5 red zones for 24 points; Michigan gained one red zone for 7 points. The Wolverines couldn't score off two Trojan turnovers, but USC scored 3 points off two Michigan miscues.
Offense was poor! Michigan gained 316 total yards with 109 on the ground, and 17 first downs; the Wolverines were 2 of 11 in 3rd and 4th down conversions. Bryce Underwood hit 15 of 24 passes for 207 yards and 2 TDs with an interception; he was sacked 3 times. Justice Haynes ran 10 times for 51 yards, but was hurt and didn't return. Jordan Marshall had 14 carries for 68 yards, and had a 16 yard reception. Donoven McCulley had 3 receptions for 39 yards and a TD. Andrew Marsh had 8 receptions for 138 yards and a TD. Eric Gentry had 6 tackles for the Trojan defense.
Defense couldn't hold the Trojan offense! USC gained 491 net yards with 224 on the ground and 24 first downs; they were 7 of 12 in 3rd and 4th down conversions. Jayden Maiava hit 25 of 32 for 265 yards and 2 TDs with an interception. King Miller ran 17 times for 156 yards and a TD. Bryan Jackson ran 5 times for 40 yards and a TD. Waymond Jordan ran 11 times for 39 yards, but he also left the game with injury. Makai Lemon had 9 catches for 93 yards and a TD. Ja'Kobi Lane had 5 receptions for 35 yards and a TD. Walker Lyons had 2 receptions for 42 yards. USC had almost a 7 minute time of possession advantage that led to 11 more offensive plays. Ernest Hausmann led the defense with 9 tackles. Defense had no sacks on Maiava, and only 2 quarterback hits.
Special Teams were not much of a factor. USC made a field goal. USC punted twice, and Michigan punted four times; each team had one downed inside the 20.
Michigan will be lucky to get to 8 wins. Sherrone Moore didn't have the team well prepared for this game, and was significantly outcoached by Lincoln Riley; the short passes really opened up things for the Trojan offense. The decision to go for 2 was stupid. Washington will be tough to beat next week. Go Blue!
