Final takeaways for Michigan football from Week 3

Michigan football beat Arkansas State 28-18. in Ann Arbor on Saturday. I have three takeaways from the game and a thought on the Big Ten opener vs USC next week.

Run game looked dominant once again

I know Michigan football played Arkansas State so this was to be expected but I don't think it should be overlooked. This team needed a confidence boost in the run game and that is exactly what we got on Saturday.

Kalel Mullings ran for 153 yards and Edwards ran for 82 yards. They can be one of the best duos in the Big Ten and I hope the offense continues to lean on them. Greg Crippen gave the offensive line a boost when he came in at center. They were communicating better and not missing as many assignments. He needs to be the center moving forward.

Continue to be creative with the run game and make it the staple of the offense. Even if that means three running plays and punting to control field position, I believe that is what this offense needs to do to be successful.

Alex Orji is the guy moving forward

Alex Orji simply has to be the quarterback for Michigan football moving forward. Davis Warren shows moments of brilliance but has way too many moments that are complete head-scratchers.

The Wolverines are not going to win any big games throwing three interceptions. Alex Orji is a limited passer but he opens up so much of the playbook with his feet. The team seems to rally around Orji when he is in the game as well. Ball control and creative run offense is the best game plan for this team to be successful on offense and Alex Orji is the perfect quarterback for that.

The penalties are unacceptable

Michigan looked like the far more undisciplined team on the field Saturday. That is a statement that I haven't said about a Michigan team in quite some time. Late hits are the most undisciplined penalty in the game of football in my opinion and there was multiple times they happened including on a 3rd and 16 in the first quarter. I love our coaching staff but this is 100% on them to fix. There needs to be a message sent to the players that this will not be tolerated no matter what your status is on the team. Harbaugh coached teams didn't make these mistakes and so far the same cannot be said about Moore coached teams.

Looking ahead to USC

The Wolverines need to have a smart game plan this week against USC. They need to manage this game early and keep it close.

If Michigan football is going to win this game, they are going to win an ugly, close game. Time of possession and field position are going to be crucial against USC. USC is explosive and has a ton of speed on offense. If Michigan can control the clock on offense and make the USC offense start deep in their territory, I like their chances.

However, if you let USC start with a good field position and allow them to play comfortably, it could be a long day. No turnovers, consistent run game and great special teams will lead the Wolverines to victory this week.