Michigan Football: 5 players who need to step up against Wisconsin
The offensive line might hold the key to victory
While getting Patterson has made a huge difference for the offense, another key to the improvement this season has been the play of the offensive line.
After the Notre Dame loss, a lot of fans were critical of their play and to be fair, there were some reasons for concern. However, in recent weeks, the offensive line has really found its groove. After ranking in the 100’s in tackles for loss and sacks allowed last season, Michigan is 31st in sacks allowed and 25th in tackles for loss allowed.
Michigan national stats OFFENSE -- total 54th (420.7), rush 42nd (199.8), pass 80th (220.8), pass efficiency 21st, scoring 30th (38.2). And remember when these were triple- digit rankings?? -- TFL allowed 25th (of 129 ranked), sacks allowed 31st.
— angelique (@chengelis) October 7, 2018
In six games, Patterson has only been sacked eight times. That’s an impressive number. The ground game is also humming and averaging 199 yards per game, which puts it 40th in the FBS.
There were a lot of doubts about Jon Runyan Jr., Juwann Bushell-Beatty, Cesar Ruiz, Ben Bredeson and Michael Onwenu, however, they have all taken steps forward and if they can continue it Saturday, UM will be in good shape.