Michigan vs. Indiana ended the way many thought it would. Michigan defeated Indiana 31-10 thanks to a dominant 4th quarter to seal the game. Here are 3 definitive takeaways from Michigan’s victory over Indiana.
Michigan vs. Indiana: Defense Wins The Day
You wouldn’t know it from looking at the numbers but the matchup of Michigan vs. Indiana saw Michigan’s offense struggle. For most of the day, the offense just looked out of sync. This was not the case for the defense. I’m going to start sounding like a broken record when it comes to the Michigan defense but this unit is elite. They compiled seven sacks with Mike Morris and Eyabi Okie leading the way again. The defense also forced a turnover on the day. It is hard to move the ball against this defense. Any third and long situation is allowing this Michigan pass rush to feast.
Blake Corum Continues His Heisman Campaign
The running game was a key part of Michigan vs. Indiana. Corum has not received national attention yet but if he keeps putting up these numbers, he is going to. Adding 124 yards and touchdown to his season total brings his total to over 600 yards and 10 touchdowns. The crazy thing about this game is he was largely contained. He ripped off a 50 yard run early which accounted for a good chunk of his yardage.
Michigan vs. Indiana was not really a high profile game though. With some high profile games coming up, Corum will have a chance to have the signature game that so many Heisman candidates need in order to win. Next week is a great opportunity as Penn State comes to town. If Corum can have a big game in a Michigan win, he will start garnering more attention.
One key reason I believe Blake Corum should be in the Heisman watch is that no one else has really emerged as the true front runner. Ohio State QB CJ Stroud has looked good but not amazing. USC QB Caleb Willaims probably has the best case as he and Lincoln Riley have revived the program. Alabama QB Bryce Young is dealing with a shoulder injury and if he misses time it will hurt his campaign to repeat. Tennessee QB Hendon Hooker has entered the conversation but needs some more statement wins. No one is running away with the Heisman so Corum has a real chance.
Can Wolverines Win Against Better Competition?
The past three games have shown some weakness for the Wolverines. Michigan vs. Indiana was no different. In the victories over Maryland, Iowa and now Indiana, Michigan won but had their struggles. The back half of the schedule is full of stiffer competition. As mentioned before, Penn State comes to town. Then Michigan State also visits which is always a tough game.
The ultimate test will come when Michigan has to go to Ohio State in the last week of the season. Will they be able to hang with the powerhouses of the conference? As of this moment, I hesitate to say yes. They have looked good but not convincingly good as Ohio State has been. Hopefully these early games, like Michigan vs. Indiana, are helping Michigan work out the kinks for the back half of the season.
The victory has to feel good. Michigan vs. Indiana will give Jim Harbaugh plenty to talk about this week as they prepare for Penn State. Next week is a huge test for the Wolverines. Penn State is the first top 25 team they will have faced. If the Wolverines can pass that test, it will go a long way in convincing people that they have staying power on the national stage.
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