2. The defense is already on pace to be better than last season’s resurgence
This may come true down the line, but for now, we have to pump the brakes and call this an overreaction. Colorado State, no disrespect, is not a worthy formidable foe to base assumptions on. Hawaii and UConn most likely won’t be either. This core won’t be grilled or face adversity until the Big Ten opens up.
However, you can’t deny what the Wolverines did to the Rams on Saturday. It was a near shutout while also amassing seven sacks,11.5 tackles for loss, and two turnovers. Jesse Minter could not have asked for a better debut. For those wondering how he would replace an all-time pass rusher and several key pieces, he passed his first challenge with flying colors.
One of my Week 1 Winners:
— Collin Kennedy (@CKennedy247) September 4, 2022
Michigan’s defense. Specifically, the defensive front.
Losses from last year’s team weren’t on anyone’s mind with 7 sacks, 11 tackles for loss and a forced fumble in the season opener… #GoBlue〽️@michiganinsider X @247Wolverine X @BriceMarich pic.twitter.com/MigdvIGzFQ
As a whole, Michigan football held the Rams to just 82 yards rushing and Clay Millen felt the wrath of the Wolverines’ fierce pressure off the edge.
Will Johnson gave up the only score but also had a nice pass break-up earlier in the game. Take away that play and not only is it a shutout, but Millen barely crosses the 100-yard mark in passing.