Observations on the First Half with Florida in the Peach Bowl, 10-13
MIchigan gained one red zone for 7 points; Florida gained two red zones for 6 points. No turnovers; however, the Wolverines converted a blocked punt into a field goal.
Offense gained 189 net yards with 8 first downs; the Wolverines were 4 of 10 in 3rd and 4th down conversions. Shea Patterson was 11 of 16 for 132 yards and a TD; he ran 5 times for 15 yards including a 21 yarder on the first offensive play, but was sacked 3 times. Donovan Peoples-Jones had 4 receptions for 32 yards and a TD. Nico Collins had 3 catches for 61 yards including a 41 yarder. Zach Gentry caught a 27 yarder. Christian Turner has 3 carries for 23 yards including a recovered fumble; Chris Evans has 7 carries for 20 yards.
Defense allowed Florida 228 net yards with 100 on the ground with 10 first downs; the Gators were 4 of 8 in 3rd down conversions. Feleipe Franks was 7 of 13 for 100 yards, and gained 70 yards in 9 carries for a TD. Van Jefferson had 3 catches for 56 yards. Jordan Scarlett has 5 carries for 24 yards; Lamical Perine has 3 carries for 22 yards. Josh Ross leads the defense with 7 tackles; Devin Gil has 6 stops; poor safety play continues to be a problem for this squad!
Special Teams was up and down! Justin Moody hit one of two field goals. Will Hart punted twice for a 38 yard average. Ronnie Bell got a 32 yard kickoff return to start the game. J'Marick Woods blocked the Townsend punt after he nailed a 66 yarder earlier in the game to pin Michigan at the 5 yard line. Florida hit both their field goals. More poor clock management by Harbaugh in the final minute and a half with throwing away 30 seconds while squandering his final time out. Time of possession and plays are about totally even.
Second Half should be a nailbiter between two very evenly matched teams. Coaching and coaching adjustments will be the difference. Go Blue!