Michigan football beat Wisconsin by two touchdowns last Saturday at the Big House, but the game was much closer than it should have been.
Things could have been worse, especially for the defense, if Rod Moore wasn't around for three plays that helped limit the Badgers to 10 points.
Yet, if Michigan football had been able to execute better, that game wouldn't have been within two possessions in the last few minutes.
The Wolverines missed a 27-yard field goal. They also fumbled a snap on a fourth down, to the point that Bryce Underwood didn't get to run a play as the Wolverines turned it over on downs.
Michigan's offensive line wasn't perfect. Andrew Sprague had some rough moments and Bryce Underwood was under some pressure.
Yet, that's not the biggest concern for Michigan football coming out of Week 6. The Wolverines head to USC this week for a game that could turn into a shootout, of sorts. At least a shootout by Michigan football standards.
Drops as a big concern for Michigan football
With Zeke Berry and Rod Moore back in the lineup, there is hope that the Wolverines can contain a dynamic passing attack, one that features the Big Ten leader in passing yards and receiving yards.
Yet, on the other side of the field, Michigan will need to keep up. Underwood might need to have one of the best games of his young career, which means guys need to catch the ball.
Three first-down receptions were dropped by Michigan receivers against Wisconsin. On one play, Underwood avoided a sack, bought time, and threw a little high to a receiver who then dropped the ball. Semaj Morgan dropped what could have been an explosive play on an RPO late in the second quarter, while Max Bredeson, bless his heart, dropped a sure first down on third down.
If those passes aren't dropped, Michigan scores at least 30 points on Saturday and wins going away. Against USC, this offense can't afford to leave any meat on the bone.
That means the receivers and tight ends need to make plays for their quarterback.