Michigan Football: Grading the Wolverines against Maryland

Michigan football knocked off Maryland but the game was closer than expected and here’s the report card for the Wolverines against the Terrapins.

Some Michigan football fans weren’t all that happy with the Wolverines after their 34-27 win against Maryland last Saturday, yet it’s true that a win is a win.

It’s also true that Michigan football was leading by 15 with just over two minutes to go. It’s also true that Maryland had the ball in a one-score game midway through the fourth quarter.

Michigan wasn’t perfect but the Wolverines aren’t going to be. As Jim Harbaugh said following the win over Rutgers last year, there isn’t a spot for “style points” on the scoreboard. So for now, as long as Michigan finishes ahead when the scoreboard hits triple zero, that’s all that matters.

Yes, there are some improvements needed. Jim Harbaugh talked about how the pass rush has to get better and it does. It will.

However, before looking ahead to the Iowa game, here’s a look back at the win over Maryland and our Michigan football report card for offense, defense, and special, as well as coaching.

Offense: B+

It’s hard to be harsh on an offense that had more than 220 yards on the ground and through the air. The Wolverines led in time of possession, scored 34 points, and converted 5-of-12 third downs.

J.J. McCarthy didn’t have his best day but he still threw for 220 yards and zero interceptions. He also threw two touchdowns, while Blake Corum scored two and ran for 243 yards.

The offensive line was outstanding. McCarthy needs to be more patient and also needs to hit a couple of the deep throws that would have put the game away earlier.

If that’s as bad as it gets for McCarthy or similar, sign up me up. If that’s a bad day, I can’t wait to see what a good day, in a full game, looks like.

Michigan still needs to get Andrel Anthony and A.J. Henning involved more. The Wolverines also need Donovan Edwards back and hopefully, that happens this week against Iowa.