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Posted on by Clint Derringer

Michigan 30 East Carolina 3 – Game 1 Recap

GAME 1 PROJECTION vs. RESULTS

Final Score: 30-3, Michigan by 27 over ECU
SP+ Projection: Michigan by 40.9 (-13.9)
CD Projection: Michigan by 32 (-5)

FIVE FACTORS

GAME 1 RECAP vs. ECU

Offensively, the number that stands out is 60(%).  Michigan called pass plays 60% of the snaps that were non-garbage time against ECU.  That clarifies an increased focus on letting J.J. McCarthy have more control over the game.  He stepped up to the challenge by going 26-of-30 for 280 yards and connecting for 3 touchdowns to Roman Wilson.  There were hiccups, as we expected, with the offense in Sherrone Moore’s absence.  However, I expect that will smooth out when Moore returns and the offensive line continues to gel together.

The defense was robbed of a shutout on the final snap of the game.  ECU settled for the saddest possible 33-yard field goal to get onto the scoreboard with 0:05 left in the game.  The Wolverines gained a lot of game experience for their younger players, especially in the secondary.  With Will Johnson and Rod Moore both sitting out, Keon Sabb and Jyaire Hill stepped in admirably.  Kenneth Grant showed that he will be adding value to the interior pass rush.  He was in the face of ECU quarterback Mason Garcia to force an interception by Mike Sainristil.

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There was almost no way to sustain the kicking game level we’re used to from the Jake Moody / Brad Robbins era.  James Turner’s nerves got the best of him as he missed an extra point.  However, he showed plenty of leg while he nailed a 50-yard field goal in the first half, and missed a 53-yarder wide in the second half.

Overall, I didn’t see anything that made me change my expectations for the early portion of the season.  It was very encouraging to see an offensive commitment to the pass game, and we know the run game will sort itself out to some extent.  Other than the players who sat out, I think the Wolverines managed to stay healthy.  Next, Michigan will look to play a cleaner game under two different acting head coaches when they take on UNLV for Game #2.  Onward!

About Clint Derringer

@clint_derringer on Twitter U-M B.A. Sport Management & Communications ‘05 U-M M.S. Program & Project Management ‘18

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