Michigan football: What's next for the Wolverines?

Despite being just nine months removed from winning a national championship Michigan Football couldn't feel further from the top of the sport.

Just seven games in and it's already clear that Michigan football won't defend their national championship, their Big Ten title, or even make the College Football Playoff. Wins against Ohio State and Michigan State seem less likely each week. This team has just made so many mistakes and has so many shortcomings it's hard to decide where to start. So with their goals now out of reach, what is next for this team and how does team 145 'salvage' the rest of this season?

Find an identity on the field

The passing game has been non-existent. The defense has been porous. And the run game still hasn't gotten going. Even on special teams Michigan football doesn't look like they can compete with the rest of the Big Ten. They've been out-schemed, out-competed, and made far too many self-inflicted mistakes to win. This team lacks an identity and first-year head coach Sherrone Moore needs to find one fast.

It has to start with being physical, not committing penalties, and not turning the ball over. Leave the mistakes, missed assignments, and scheme aside. This Michigan football team has to get back to their pillars that it built the success of the past three years on.

They have to be willing to make mistakes, allow big plays, and struggle on offense if it means they can find an identity to build around. If they can focus on these three areas that are synonymous with Michigan football success, the rest will take care of itself.

Even last week against Illinois, if Michigan doesn't turn the ball over the Wolverines likely win that game. They allowed 10 points off of turnovers and missed out on scoring deep in Illinois territory due to an interception. The turnaround of this season has to start here.