In the latest U M Go Blue podcast, Phil Callihan @pcallihan and Clint Derringer @Clint_Derringer break down Michigan’s 31-12 loss to Texas, focusing on the offensive struggles and defensive lapses that led to the defeat. From quarterback Davis Warren’s timing issues to miscommunication on the offensive line, the podcast takes a deep dive into what went wrong and how the Wolverines can rebound. Despite the setback, the coaches and players stress the importance of resilience, with a focus on sharpening offensive execution and defensive strategies as they prepare for their next challenge against Arkansas State.
Final Score: 12-31, Texas by 19 SP+ Projection: Texas by 6.5 (-12.5) CD Projection: Texas by 6 (-13)
FIVE FACTORS
GAME 2 RECAP vs. Texas
The false start by LT Myles Hinton on the first offensive snap at home was a harbinger of things to come. The Wolverines did not look sharp at any position. When there were flashes of competence, they quickly dulled into a burnt orange haze. QB Davis Warren finished 22-33 for 204 yards and a touchdown. Unfortunately, most of that came in the fourth quarter when all my metrics were removed as Garbage Time. Donovan Edwards and Kalel Mullings combined for just 14 carries and 66 yards, an average of 4.7 yards per carry.
My pregame prediction was for Michigan to score 14 points, and a victory would require the Wolverines D to hold Texas under 20. The Longhorns looked as if they could execute any set of plays they wanted, under very little pressure. I was truly shocked that Texas could amass 374 total yards in three quarters (!!) against Wink Martindale’s unit. Some of the issues were short fields and battling uphill. But, plain and simple, the Texas offense whipped up on the Michigan defense today.
Just as the offense started out with a bad omen, special teams also tripped out of the gate. Tommy Doman punted just 28 yards after the first series went 3-and-out, allowing Texas to get out to an initial 7-0 lead. There were no other critical errors, but the Wolverines were never in a position to capitalize on a potential advantage here.
In the grand scheme of things nationally, today was much more about Texas being good as opposed to Michigan being bad. But, that doesn’t make it any easier to swallow. The Wolverines need to continue to toughen up in the trenches on both sides of the ball. Every season-long goal is still available. The challenge is now one of grit and leadership for both players and coaches. Next week, Arkansas State comes in, and hopefully Michigan can build some confidence in a “Get Right Game”. Smash!
In the latest U M Go Blue podcast, Phil Callihan @pcallihan and Clint Derringer @Clint_Derringer dive deep into Michigan’s 30-10 victory over Fresno State, analyzing Davis Warren’s solid debut as the starting quarterback and backup QB Alex Orji’s impactful moments on the field. They explore the offensive line’s early struggles, the defensive prowess showcased by Will Johnson’s thrilling 86-yard interception return, and the promise displayed by running backs Kalel Mullings and Donovan Edwards. With special teams shining and the team now gearing up for a tough showdown against Texas, this episode captures the critical takeaways and sets the stage for what’s next in Michigan’s season.
