Michigan Football: 3 takeaways from the destruction of UConn
By Nick Popio
2. The defense pitched a rare shutout
Jesse Minter’s unit did a exquisite job in the blowout. They didn’t get in the backfield to record a sack, but didn’t let the Huskies do anything noticeable all game long. Zion Turner only hit on four passes and he and the backup Cale Millen went a disastrous 5-20 for just 24 yards. Not bad for one of the nation’s best passing defenses.
UConn barely scraped by 100 yards of total offense. Turner was their leading rusher also. They ran a lot of run/pass option, but Michigan’s defense just wouldn’t let them breathe. It was a season low in passing yards as well as completions and passing attempts for the freshman. That’s something they shouldn’t see the rest of the season.
Through three games, Michigan's starting defense hasn't allowed a point.
— Brandon Justice (@BrandonJustice_) September 17, 2022
UConn only gained six first downs in the loss compared to four times more for Michigan. They went 2-14 on third downs which accounted for that stat too. For new defensive coordinator Jesse Minter it’s his first shutout as the leader of any defense and something that hasn’t happened for Michigan since 2019 against Rutgers. The starting defense is now unscored upon through the initial three weeks.