Michigan football defeated Fresno State 30-10. It was far from pretty and left a lot to be desired but there was a lot to like and build on heading into a huge Week 2 matchup. I'm going to share my thoughts about the game and what it means with the Longhorns coming to town this week.
Offense
The Michigan football offense led by Davis Warren looked mediocre overall. There didn't seem to be much rhythm and the only touchdown of the first half was set up by a Zeke Berry interception that gave us great field position.
Kalel Mullings led the way on the ground. Donovan Edwards was pretty quiet after scoring the first touchdown of the game. I thought Orji did a great job coming in and providing a very effective role as a runner. If they can master this two-quarterback system, it will be very hard to gameplan against.
I expect Orji to throw the ball more as the season goes along. Defenses are going to gameplan him as a runner only and it will open up the pass game. The offensive line was good but not great and that is to be expected with a new group starting for the first time together. They showed moments where they were able to move the defensive line and open gaps. This was especially evident during the drive in the fourth quarter where they went 75 yards for a touchdown.
The receivers did not have a very good against Fresno State. There needs to be a spark from them next week to help the offense. Tyler Morris and Semaj Morgan have to make some big plays. Loveland was incredible and showed why he is the best tight end in college football but he can't do it all by himself if this offense is going to have success.
Overall, there is a lot to build on and this year is going to consist of Michigan grinding it out and finding ways to score points. I have the utmost confidence they are going to figure out a way to get this done.
Defense
The Michigan football defense looked like the elite unit we all hoped they were going to be. Mason Graham and Kenneth Grant showed they are worth every bit of preseason hype they are getting.
Josaiah Stewart and Derrick Moore were great on the edge and Benny got his first sack of the year as well. Linebacker play was great and Jimmy Rolder showed he is capable of playing meaningful reps as he got to the quarterback for his first sack of the season.
Makari Paige had some big hits, Zeke Berry got his first interception and Will Johnson had a pick six in a crucial moment. Now, Will Johnson was targeted often and with some success but I think that is a good thing. He is going to be hungry to show why he is the best corner in the nation moving forward. This secondary is elite and we are going to need them next week against the athletes of Texas.
Special Teams
Dominic Zvada was incredible. Three for three on-field goals including a 55-yarder. Michigan football continues to be elite at developing and finding kickers. We have a good one on our hands with Zvada. Doman was great at punting as always, too. I have complete trust in him to continue to be great.
Coaching
One thing I wanted to address that I saw a lot of criticism about was the coaching staff deciding to rotate guys throughout this game. People were unsure why this was happening but it was because Michigan football knew they were superior to Fresno State.
Sherrone Moore was sending a message to his players that he trusts them to perform even if they aren't the starter. This is going to be so good for the team as the season goes on. I don't expect him to do this against Texas but I fully expect him to do it against teams that Michigan has the clear talent advantage against.
Texas
This Texas game is going to be a huge game with a ton of hype. I believe the game vs Fresno State was a perfect week one game for Michigan football.
The Wolverines were tested against a team that is going to be good this year. They were exposed in areas but they also showed moments of excellence. This game is going to be a true strength on strength matchup. The Texas offensive line going against the Michigan defensive line is going to be an elite matchup.
Michigan is currently sitting at a 6.5-point underdog and I love that for this team. U-M has developed a confidence in big games and Texas is coming into the Big House.
We are in for a treat this week and I can't wait.