The win was in Michigan's hands until it was in the hands of Iowa wide receiver Reece Vander Zee, who hauled in the difference-maker. With two seconds left on the clock, all Michigan had to do was get one more stop on one last play, but instead of pulling out a victory in The Big House, the Wolverines had to watch Iowa celebrate on their own home field.
The horrible thing about this game is that Michigan actually played well. The offense moved the ball well against a great Iowa defense, and the Michigan defense was dominant -- until it allowed two touchdowns in the fourth quarter. That made the difference in this game.
It feels like there should be more winners and losers, but really the losers list came down to the two players who gave this game away on the final drive. The winners, on the other hand, had the best day of anyone and deserve to be recognized.
Winners
WR Andrew Marsh
After finally breaking out last week, Andrew Marsh had another great day for the Wolverines, going off for seven receptions and 106 yards, just behind JJ Buchanan, who also had a big game. Marsh didn't find the end zone in this game, but he made some crucial catches for the Wolverines and was great after the catch.
This passing game looks to have finally found its rhythm with Marsh and Buchanan, and this could add a whole new layer to this Michigan offense.
WR JJ Buchanan
Like Marsh, JJ Buchanan had a great game, leading the Wolverines in receiving with 130 yards and two touchdowns on just five receptions. Buchanan was practically unguardable at times for this elite Iowa defense. Buchanan is continuing to prove why he was one of the best pickups for Michigan in the transfer portal.
Losers
CB Zeke Berry
Zeke Berry is undoubtedly drawing a lot of criticism in Ann Arbor. His unsportsmanlike penalty is a big reason for this loss. After an incomplete pass, Iowa was staring down a 4th and 12, but a bonehead shove against an Iowa receiver out of bounds right in front of an official gave Iowa a new set of downs and a free 15 yards.
That final drive was the difference-maker in this game, giving Iowa a chance to score and win with no time left on the clock. Michigan's penalties have been an issue this season, but they hadn't cost them until now.
S Smith Snowden
Smith Snowden ends up on the losers list as the defender on Vander Zee, who scored the final touchdown for Iowa. Granted, Snowden played good defense, but Iowa QB Hank Brown made a perfect throw, and Vander Zee made a perfect catch. Snowden got twisted around on the route, and ultimately, his blown coverage ended up costing Michigan the game.
A good performance for the Wolverines' defense is now marred by the final drive, one that ended up changing everything for Michigan.
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