Wrigley Field is the backdrop of a defensive battle.
By Roy J. Akers — www.skyviewsports.net
Three UP
One UP- Defensive Battle
Both UM and Northwestern figured to make this a defensive battle. The Wolverines are T-13 in NCAA scoring defensive giving up 17 points per game. Northwestern is T-21, giving up 19 points per. Michigan’s four turnovers and two missed field goals gave the Wildcast a chance to build up easy points with multiple post-turnover looks on the Wolverines’ side of the field.
Box Score
Two Up- Michigan Run game
Not much to brag about until the first drive of the second half. Jordan Marshall ran for less than 30 first-half yards when he sprang for 65 and a near TD to set up a UM TD. It is Marshall’s fourth 50+ yard rush on the season. Marshall runs 19 times for 142 yards and two TD’s. Michigan rushes as a team for 202 yards.
Three UP- Two true freshmen step up
Michigan Fr. QB Bryce Underwood goes 15-20 for 185 in the first half, and his main target, true freshman Brad Marsh, catches 9 first-half passes for 135 yards.
One DOWN- Turnovers
Michigan turned the ball over five time,s and the Wolverines looked to be in control of the game before the second-half turnovers mounted.
Two DOWN – No Team Turnovers on NW
When you turn the ball over five times and do NOT force your opponent into any, it is usually a recipe for losing a football game. Michigan did defend eight Wildcat passes, mostly through line of scrimmage knockdowns. Sherrone Moore’s team did not get to Preston Stone.
Three DOWN – Team Defense
Michigan has NO dominant tacklers. Mason Curtis was the leading tackler with five including assists. Three other players had four. The Wolverines need some ball hawks.
Roy J. Akers covers College Football for www.skyviewsports.net
