Michigan Football: 3 Studs and 3 duds against Wisconsin

Studs

Giles Jackson

The speedy sophomore wideout had only one catch for 36 yards, however that lone reception jumpstarted a previously dormant Michigan offense on a drive that ended on Wisconsin’s one yard line. Jackson was responsible for the most explosive play of the game for the Wolverines and this was Joe Milton’s best throw on the day as well.

Also on the ledger for Jackson was an electric kickoff return that went for 43 yards. He was one of the few bright spots for a Wolverines offense that mustered only 11 points on the day.

When one of the “studs” had only one catch and a kick return as his game defining moments, you know there is a problem offensively.

Vincent Gray

Possibly a surprise inclusion to some based on the season he has had to this point, but Gray played well on Saturday. Opposing QB Graham Mertz was 1-5 for 7 yards when targeting Vincent Gray’s receiver which is a much needed step in the right direction for him.

After being torched over the past two weeks by Michigan State and Indiana, Gray buckled down and was recognized as the highest graded player in coverage for the Wolverines this week according to Pro Football Focus.

Michigan football still gave up 49 points to the Badgers but you can’t blame Vincent Gray or most of the secondary for that as they held Wisconsin to 127 passing yards on the night.

Daxton Hill

The Oklahoman safety has been possibly the most consistent player for Michigan football this season. He continues to shine no matter the opponent and he seemingly never makes mistakes. Hill was the leading tackler on both sides and only allowed one reception on the day.

As the Michigan defense continues to struggle through the season, Daxton Hill shines an even brighter light on the lack of top end talent currently on the defensive side of the ball for the Wolverines.

Hill actually flipped his commitment to Alabama before coming back to Michigan shortly after. Is it too harsh to wonder if his immense talent would have been better utilized in Tuscaloosa?

If the NCAA pushes the one-time transfer rule through for next season, unlikely at this point, I would not be shocked if top end talent like Daxton Hill takes a long look at NFL talent factories around the country — especially if the downward spiral continues and a coaching change is made for the Michigan Wolverines.