Michigan Wolverines: Miami — What Happened and What it Means — Part IV
Sep 6, 2014; South Bend, IN, USA; Michigan Wolverines coach Brady Hoke stands next to quarterback Devin Gardner (98) before the game against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish at Notre Dame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Posted at 4:00pm — 9/16/2014
Michigan Wolverines: Miami — What Happened and What it Means — Part IV
The Never Ending Discussion of Devin Gardner
He is an athlete, he can create turnovers or touchdowns, and he is Michigan’s quarterback. Devin did not lose the game in South Bend, although his errors put the team in a rough way. Field goals were missed, defenders failed to prevent Notre Dame receivers from crossing their faces, and once again the psyche appeared wounded. Devin is not Johnny Manziel, Roger Staubach, or even Tony Romo when it comes to stalking the sideline and infusing energy. He is somewhat quiet and introspective. HE IS ALSO VERY LOYAL.
Sep 6, 2014; South Bend, IN, USA; Michigan Wolverines quarterback Devin Gardner (98) fumbles as he is hit by Notre Dame Fighting Irish linebacker Jaylon Smith (9) in the fourth quarter at Notre Dame Stadium. Notre Dame won 31-0. Mandatory Credit: Matt Cashore-USA TODAY SportsThose who think it is easy and proper to kick him to the curb and play a sophomore with one game of experience have never coached. It is not easy to boot a kid who has given much and accomplished more than most players. It is a crossroad decision for coaches, one that could provide a somewhat unexpected reward or spark a catalyst for collapse.
The Starters?
This piggybacks on the previous segment. The offensive line looks set, with the possible future inclusion of Kalis. Miller continues to hang in, which is his mode of operation. The receivers will all get time and the rotation is set. The linebacker group looks like a couple of guys have had their time trimmed and better step it up if more playing time is to be a reality. The defensive line is solid and not spectacular, although missed tackles from the weak side end still seem too abundant. The secondary looks as if three guys can play and three others are not far behind. Experience and hard coaching can help this group turn the corner. At least the backs are in the neighborhood and most of the time appear to have an understanding of what is happening on offense.
What This Means
Michigan won a game against a lower level MAC team. The score deferential should have been greater. But sometimes expectations go south. The defense may have had a chance to pitch a shut out, but the offense and special teams foiled any potential effort.
For the second week in a row, the run defense produced small opposition numbers in the running game. Next week’s team, Utah, thrives on putting up big numbers. Michigan’s defense will receive a severe test and the offense will have no choice but to produce.
Peppers and the entire gang will get a real test from some typical PAC 12 skilled players playing at a face pace attempting to put Michigan in a quick hole. It seems unreal that Michigan is the favorite. Michigan has had success at home and the pot needs stirred with a recipe of listening, understanding, passion, and more than anything solid play.
Three turnovers next Saturday may be Dunkirk.
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Written by GBMWolverine Staff — Doc4Blu
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