Run defense is a concern
Michigan's run defense hasn't been quite as good this season. That was before all of the injuries, but on Saturday night, stopping the run was a struggle.
Jaishawn Barham was inserted into the lineup at linebacker to fill in for the injured Jimmy Rolder and Cole Sullivan. He made it one possession before leaving the game.
TJ Guy played more snaps at EDGE. He was effective so it was a smart move. But you could sense the difference. Purdue rushed for 138 yards. It was the third-most allowed by the Wolverines this season. It was the fourth time in nine games Michigan has allowed over 100 yards rushing, which is uncharacteristic.
Young players like Troy Bowles will need to get up to speed. If Barham or Rolder, or one of the preferred linebackers is able to return that would be huge. But even before then, the run defense has been an issue which is something to keep in mind over the next three games.
It should be one of the issues to address during the bye week.