Something is amiss in Ann Arbor. Even with the moderate success the Michigan Wolverines have had in this football season so far...something still feels off kilter. Saturday night's loss in the Coliseum against USC was not just another loss against a ranked opponent; it was a reflection of what the Wolverines are. An average team with a fairly easy schedule that still underperforms when the national spotlight is upon them.
Losing Justice Haynes to an injury was a devastating blow to the Michigan offense. But what was even more glaring once Haynes exited, was that the Michigan Wolverines have not fully left the ghosts of last year in the past. The offense was once again underwelming, as it was against Oklahoma. And even with USC missing two of their offensive linemen, they still managed to present a physical challenge, that Michigan could not out muster. It was a disappointing output for a team with a three-game winning streak, that still does not have a signature win on its resume.
Yawn.
Ever since Jim Harbaugh left and Sherrone Moore took over as head coach, the Wolverines have failed to have an identity. They have been physical...at times. The offense went from lackluster to having spurts of competence, but nothing consistent. The defense has its moments, but not quite the opportunistic defense they once were. Michigan does not have an identity, period. That still raises the question of whether Moore is the right one for the job or not. The fanbase barely made it through Harbaugh's tough seasons without asking for his dismissal. How much time will they give Moore?
Where will this team be by the time they face Ohio State at the end of November? With the fairly favorable schedule, one could conclude that the Wolverines would not go into that game with anymore than two losses. But how could anyone can be sure? A team with zero identity is a team susceptible to more losses, even against teams that they have a talent advantage against. Who is the leader of this team? Is it Bryce Underwood? Is it Cole Sullivan who leads the team with interceptions? Is it Sherrone Moore? Who is the leader? Questions about leadership and identity come up when a team is a no show in both games of this magnitude.
What is the narrative that will follow this team the rest of this season? Identity crisis?
Two words that don't mix in the game of football.