Michigan Football vs Purdue: Key Takeaways from the Wolverines win

Michigan football beat Purdue Saturday by a score of 28-10. And while it wasn’t easy, there was plenty to be impressed about. Here are key takeaways.

When it comes to winning Big Ten football games, on the road, the score doesn’t really matter. And the only thing that mattered for Michigan football Saturday, was the 28-10 margin of victory over Purdue.

It wasn’t a spotless game for Michigan by any stretch of the imagination. But the Wolverines followed a similar formula of great defense, good special teams and a ball control offense.

Early in the game, Wilton Speight was knocked out and that paved the way for John O’Korn. All the senior did was lead Michigan football to four score drives, including three in the second half.

The defense also did its part. Michigan football held Purdue to less than 200 yards of total offense. The Boilermakers possessed the ball for just 21 minutes and managed just eight first downs, as well as 30 rushing yards on 20 carries.

Yet, late in the third quarter, UM still found itself trailing 10-7. But with a veteran quarterback, the Wolverines finally answered the call in the red zone and scored three touchdowns, when in previous weeks, they were kicking field goals.

The win wasn’t glamorous, but in conference play, on the road, it doesn’t need to be. The defense dominated, the quarterback (even though he wasn’t the starter) played well and Chris Evans finally showed signs of life.

Thankfully, Michigan football has a bye this week, which can help sort out what’s ahead. But here are some of the important takeaways from the Wolverines win, including, what O’Korn’s performance means for the starting quarterback.