Michigan Football: Grading Wolverines victorious rebound vs Rutgers
The offense
Michigan’s offense mustered 476 yards compared to Rutgers 152, but there was only a one minute difference in time of possession. That’s called efficiency.
Quarterbacks
Grade: A
At one point, Shea was 12 of 13, and he couldn’t miss. While he did throw an interception, Shea’s decision to throw the ball up to Nico Collins in single coverage was optimal. The pass fell short of the mark and ended in the arms of Rutgers defensive back Damon Hayes.
Patterson was relieved at half time by sophomore Joe Milton. After Dylan McCaffrey suffered a concussion a week prior, Milton was thrust into the backup role, and he played admirably in limited action. Joe completed three passes on four attempts, and he threw and ran for a touchdown.
Running backs
Grade: B –
I’m not certain who the starting running back is, but I know Josh Gattis was determined to let everyone carry the ball on Saturday.
In total, seven running backs were included in the game plan, and there was a total of 41 rushes for 141 yards and five touchdowns. However, three of those rushing touchdowns came from Shea.
This group gets a B- because no one really stood out. It was the only part of the offense that wasn’t smooth and organized.
Wide receivers
Grade: A
Michigan football has a top-five receiving core that has been wasted up until they lined up against Rutgers. What we saw on Saturday was the unleashing of the trio of Donovan Peoples-Jones, Tarik Black, and Collins. We also saw the underdog Ronnie Bell solidify himself as the teams leading receiver. Through four games, Bell has 17 receptions for 263 yards.
Tight ends
Grade: B +
With starting tight end, Sean McKeon in street clothes, true freshman Erick All was forced into action, and he was instrumental during the first touchdown of the game. Patterson targeted Collins and a block by All on the sidelines sprung Nico for the score.
Erick didn’t see any passing action, but Nick Eubanks did. Nick caught three passes for 43 yards, and he had a long of 26 yards.
Offensive line
Grade: B
Shea and Milton had all day to throw, but it was the ground game that wasn’t up to par. Pass protection deserves an A, run blocking deserves a C.
According to the official stats, Rutgers had zero QB hurries which is a stark difference from the seven surrendered against the Badgers.