Highlights, gut reactions to Michigan football win over Minnesota

Just when you think that you can start to feel good about Michigan football, the Wolverines do what they did in the second half against Minnesota.

The Wolverines built a 21-point lead on two different occasions. The running game wasn't great but it was good enough. Kalel Mullings ripped off a touchdown on the opening drive of the game, giving U-M an early lead.

Later, after Zeke Berry ripped the ball away from a Minnesota player, Mullings found the end zone again. A blocked punt also set up a touchdown pass from Quarterback Alex Orji to Tyler Morris to extend the lead to 21-0.

Minnesota scored late in the first half. However, Michigan allowed Minnesota to score three touchdowns in the fourth quarter and nearly pull off a miracle comeback. A bad snap on the last drive could have been disastrous. The clock management was really bad down the stretch.

Still, a win is a win (27-24). Michigan had to find a way to play four quality quarters of football. Here are the gut reactions.

Gut reactions from Michigan football win over Minnesota 

• Thank goodness for Kalel Mullings. He rushed for 111 yards and converted some massive short-yardage plays. 
• It was good to see Donovan Edwards and Mullings on the field at the same time. 
• Alex Orji had some good moments and some really bad ones. The interception seemed to zap his confidence.
• Michigan’s defense ran out of gas in the second half. 
• Dominic Zvada is a godsend. Michigan football might be in overtime if it wasn’t for him. 
• Sherrone Moore has some stuff to clean up. The first half was a positive. Yet, the second half was a mess. That won’t fly against good teams. 
• The impact of Colston Loveland in the passing game is evident. 
• Alex Orji is still the best quarterback for this team. He engages defenders in the run game. 
• A win is a win. 4-1 is 4-1. 
• Go Blue!