Observations on the win over Rutgers, 42-7
Michigan gained 5 red zones, and converted 4 for 28 points. Rutgers gained no red zones. Michigan scored 7 points off two Scarlet Knight turnovers.
Offense gained 24 first downs, 453 net yards in 67 plays, and was 10 of 16 in 3rd and 4th down conversions. Shea Patterson was 18 of 27 for 260 yards and 3 TDs. Karan Higdon had 42 yards on 15 carries for 2 TDs, Chris Evans had 6 carries for 75 yards and a TD plus 2 receptions for 26 yards, and True Wilson added 58 more on 8 carries. Nico Collins had 3 receptions for 56 yards for 2 TDs. Donovan Peoples-Jones had 5 catches for 83 yards. Zach Gentry had 3 catches for 42 yards. Oliver Martin had 3 catches for 38 yards and a TD. The 7 minute time of possession advantage resulted in 14 more offensive plays. Saquan Hampton led the Scarlett Knights with 11 tackles, and a pass break up.
Defense held the Scarlett Knights to 11 first downs, 252 net yards, and they were 5 for 14 in 3rd and 4th down conversions; however, Isaih Pacheco scored an 80 yard TD, and the Scarlet Knights outrushed us, 208 to 204 with 7 less rushing attempts. Arthur Sitkowski was 8 of 19 for 40 yards. Jordan Glasgow led the defense with 6 tackles, Brad Hawkins replaced Josh Metellus; he and Chase Winovich had 5 tackles each. They did not get the shutout they coveted, and there were no sacks. Ambry Thomas had a late interception.
Special Teams had 7 kickoffs by Justin Moody with net returns of 17 yards per return, and two of three punts by Will Hart downed inside the 20. Ambry Thomas had two kickoff returns for 49 yards. Khaleke Hudson was credited for a punt block although replays showed he disturbed the punter, but didn't touch the ball.
Neither Josh Metellus or Aubrey Solomon played, LaVert Hill left the game with a concussion, and Kwity Paye injured his arm in the game. 4 quarterbacks played (Patterson, Brandon Peters, Joe Milton and Michael Sessa) , 5 running backs played (Higdon, Evans, Wilson, Berkley Edwards and Joe Hewlett) and Luke Schoonover gained his first action at Tight End. There was less than 44,000 people attending the game.
Bring on the Hoosiers! Go Blue!