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Why Michigan Football’s Run Game Hasn’t Looked Elite in 2023

By Cullen Corr

Michigan running back Blake Corum (2) runs for a touchdown against UNLV during the second half at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor on Saturday, Sept. 9, 2023.
Michigan running back Blake Corum (2) runs for a touchdown against UNLV during the second half at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor on Saturday, Sept. 9, 2023. /
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ANN ARBOR, MICHIGAN – SEPTEMBER 09: J.J. McCarthy #9 of the Michigan Wolverines throws a first half pass against the UNLV Rebels at Michigan Stadium on September 09, 2023 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)
ANN ARBOR, MICHIGAN – SEPTEMBER 09: J.J. McCarthy #9 of the Michigan Wolverines throws a first half pass against the UNLV Rebels at Michigan Stadium on September 09, 2023 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /

3. JJ Has Taken a Huge Step Forward

It’s not like Michigan football is struggling to score points or move the ball in any of these opening games and while the running game on the surface doesn’t look as sharp, the passing game has taken a massive step forward.

JJ McCarthy looks vastly improved from last season and is playing like one of the top QBs in the country.

The result is Michigan isn’t running the ball quite as stubbornly as they did at times last season simply because they know they can trust JJ.

Michigan is still running a lot, but the offense is much more balanced and focused on taking what the defense gives them. The result is the run game looks average when teams sell out to stop it.

While this Michigan team hasn’t looked like the same team they were last year, it’s because this offense has taken a step forward and become far more versatile.

Next. 15 Best Michigan Football careers ever in the NFL. dark

This run game will get going and it is still going to be a focal point of Michigan’s identity. It’s just going to take a few games until we really start to see it.

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