Observations on the first half with Penn State, 7-21

Penn State gained 2 red zones for 14 points, and converted a Michigan turnover for 7 points; Michigan gained one red zone for 7 points.

Offense continues to sputter! Michigan gained 11 first downs, 187 net yards in 41 plays with 65 on the ground; they were 4 of 10 in 3rd and 4th down conversions. Shea Patterson was 12 of 22 for 122 yards with an interception. Donovan Peoples-Jones caught 3 passes for 34 yards, but also had two drops. Nico Collins had 2 catches for 47 yards. Nick Eubanks had 2 catches for 21 yards, and Tarik Black had 3 catches for 9 yards. Zach Charbonnet ran 6 times for 30 yards and a TD plus caught a 4 yard pass. We held an 8 minute time of possession advantage which gave us 12 more offensive plays, but it was negated by a turnover and offensive ineffectiveness. Micah Parsons is all over the place with 8 tackles

Defense held Penn State to only 8 first downs with 203 net yards in 29 plays, but gave up too many big plays; the Nitts were 2 of 6 in 3rd down conversions. Sean Clifford was 9 of 16 for 115 yards and 2 TDs; he also ran 7 times for 22 yards and another TD. K.J. Hamler caught 4 passes for 47 yards and a TD. Tight End Pat Friermuth caught 3 passes for 28 yards and a TD. Jahan Dotson caught a 37 yarder. Ricky Slade has two carries for 46 yards including a 44 yarder. Kwity Paye leads the defense with 5 tackles. Hudson, Thomas and Hawkins have all been burned for TDs or long gainers.

Special Teams was a non-factor as Will Hart punted 3 times, and B Gillikin punted 4 times.

Second Half will only be a close ball game if we get turnovers; otherwise, Penn State will continue to pound us. Sorry I can't be more optimistic, but facts are facts; we are not a good football team. Go Blue!