Observations on the first half with SMU, 21-7
Michigan converted two red zones into 7 points; SMU gained no red zones. The Mustangs couldn't convert their lone turnover into points; however, the Wolverines converted the last play of the first half into a 73 yard interception for 7 points.
Offense marched for 11 first downs, 205 total yards with 73 on the ground. Chris Evans ran 15 times for 45 yards, and caught two passes for 7 yards. Ben Mason score a TD on a one foot plunge. Shea Patterson was 8 of 10 for 132 yards and a 35 yard TD toss to Donovan Peoples-Jones. Zach Gentry caught two passes for 56 yards. The Wolverines dominated possession time by more than 10 minutes which led to a 12 play advantage; we were 6 of 12 in 3rd and 4th down conversions.
Defense gave SMU 10 first downs, 144 net yards including 31 on the ground. Ben Hicks was 7 of 12 for 133 yards including a 50 yard TD toss as Brad Hawkins missed his assignment. Michigan got 2 sacks by Carlos Kemp and Bryan Mone on Hicks, and Chase Winovich led the defense with 4 tackles. James Proche caught 5 passes for 94 yards including the TD. The Mustangs were one of four in 3rd down conversions.
Special Teams play was good. Will Hart punted twice for a 50 yard average with one downed inside the 20. Jake Moody had two kickoffs with two touchbacks. The one penalty of the half for SMU resulted in putting Michigan in position at the Mustang 35 where DPJ caught his TD pass.
Second Half should be a chance to put a whipping on them so the reserves can see playing time. Go Blue!