Observations on the First Half with Utah, 3-10

Utah converts two red zones for 10 points, but is unable to capitalize on two Wolverine turnovers. Michigan converted one red zone for 3 points.

Offense did a poor job! Jake Rudock hit 10 of 17 for 94 yards, but missed a wide open Jehu Chesson on two wide open bombs; he also threw two interceptions. Michigan's running game was non-existent with 25 yards in net rushing on 13 rushes. The Wolverines managed only 119 yards in total offense on 30 plays for 6 first downs. Jake Butt had 5 catches for 41 yards, and Amara Darboh grabbed two for 40 yards. Grant Perry needs to learn how to run better routes as both of the picks were on passes thrown to him. No sign of Drake Harris or Jabril Peppers contributing to this offense. DeVeon Smith doesn't hit the hole quickly enough, and runs laterally too much; he is too tentative. I'd like to see more of Karan Higdon in the second half.

Defense had a big red zone stop early, but gave up 180 first half yards with 133 in the air with 11 first downs. Travis Wilson was 14 of 22, and ran 7 times for 26 yards. Devante Booker was held to 21 yards in 14 carries, but one of those carries resulted in a TD plus he gained 50 yards on 5 pass grabs. Joe Bolden led the defense with 8 tackles, Desmond Morgan had 6, and Chris Wormley chipped in the 5 stops. Justin Clark had a 17 yard interception to close out the first half.

Special Teams looked pretty good! Kenny Allen banged two touchbacks on kickoffs, and nailed his only field goal try. Blake O'Neill punted one to the 3 yard line, and held a 43.3 yard average on 3 punts. Utah missed a field goal.

Second Half adjustments must help us gain offensive time of possession, a running game and points if we are to leave Salt Lake with a win.