Observations on the win over Nebraska, 56-10
Michigan gained 30 points in 6 red zone trips; Nebraska gained 10 points in two second half red zones against the second team defense. The Wolverines scored 10 points off two Cornhusker turnovers plus a safety; Nebraska scored 7 points off one Michigan turnover.
Offense pounded the Nebraska defense for 22 first downs, 491 net yards including 285 on the ground, and was 8 of 17 in 3rd and 4th down conversions. Shea Patterson was 15 of 22 for 120 yards and a TD; he was only sacked once. Karan Higdon ran 12 times for 136 yards and a TD. Ben Mason ran 6 times for 18 yards and 3 TDs. Zach Gentry caught 3 passes for 32 yards and a TD. Tru Wilson spelled Chris Evans with 6 carries for 43 yards plus a pass for another 9 yards. Christian Turner carried 10 times for 55 yards. O'Maury Samuels carried 6 times for 23 yards, but fumbled although Michigan recovered. Dylan McCaffrey was 3 of 8 for 86 yards with a 56 yard TD pass to Ronnie Bell; he also ran twice for 23 yards. Michigan had an 11 minute time of possession advantage that led them to 22 more offensive plays. Chris Evans did not dress for the game.
Defense was solid! They gave Nebraska only 12 first downs and 132 net yards with 39 on the ground; they were 3 of 13 in 3rd down conversions. The Cornhuskers were forced into 8 "three and outs" with 9 punts, two turnovers and a safety. Devin Bush led the group with 6 tackles inlcuding a sack; Brandon Watson and James Ross had 4 tackles each. Michigan had 4 sacks on Martinez. A tipped pass by Lawrence Marshall led to the first turnover of the game on an interception by Josh Metellus. Khaleke Hudson left the game with his second targeting call in the last two games.
Special Teams was outstanding! Quinn Nordin missed an extra point, but made two field goals. Justin Moody had 10 kickofffs with 4 touchbacks; the kickoff team didn't allow a return past the 20. Will Hart punted 3 times for a 59.3 yard average with 2 downed inside the 20. Donovan Peoples-Jones had 3 punt returns for 77 yards with a TD, Ronnie Bell had a 7 yarder, and LaVert Hill had a 14 yarder. Ambry Thomas recovered a fumble forced by Jake McCurry on a punt return, and his touchdown run was negated as rule states the ball could not be advanced.
Bring on the Wildcats! Go Blue!