Yawn.
There isn't a word that accurately describes the Wolverine season so far.
Michigan's win at Michigan State was another example of what has defined the Wolverines' season. The Wolverines excel against teams that are not quite as talented or formidable in the college stratosphere. But underwhelm against teams that are equal in talent or have the schemes to shut down Michigan's game plan. The current ranking of 25 draws the conclusion that Michigan football is just an average team, not necessarily bad but not necessarily good either.
Penn State fired John Franklin with an extensive resume of winning. Brian Kelly heard chants about getting fired after a dismantling at the hands of Texas A&M. Oklahoma State fired their coach early in the season, not that it made them any better, but they still made the decision. Even rumblings at North Carolina have become mainstream conversation, and they're only in the first season under Billy B. This shows that mild success doesn't guarantee a job. What Sherrone Moore has done in two seasons at Michigan could be described as maybe one hint above mediocrity. No better than what any of the aforementioned coaches were before they met controversy.
Michigan needs more out of Sherrone Moore
It's considered underwhelming when the team doesn't have a marquee win on its schedule. It's considered disappointing when the team struggles with its identity, past the midway point of a season. A lackluster passing game became a moot point, but it was still noticeable against Michigan State. Even more so, it's considered defeating when the fanbase is still undecided on the head coach. When Harbaugh left, it appeared to be a forgone conclusion that Moore would be the next guy up. There wasn't much of a hiring process, and not a lot of fanfare surrounding the hiring. It's not to say that Moore didn't deserve a chance, but after what Harbaugh did at his alma mater, was Moore the right guy?
Two years in and what can a Michigan fan say if someone from the outside, looking in, asked them, "Is Moore your coach for the future?" Maybe. Possibly. If only this happened. Those answers don't exactly exude full confidence.
Beating Ohio State in Columbus and beating Alabama in a bowl game was a nice way to end a season last year with very few high points. Another win against Ohio State and another bowl game win wouldn't necessarily be a terrible thing but in the current wave of college football, that doesn't guarantee future stability.
It's hard to sell a fanbase on average forever.