The Michigan Wolverines have won their first game during the post-Harbaugh era of the team, 30-10, against the Fresno State Bulldogs.
The Wolverines have officially kicked off a new chapter in the history of their program as they defeated the Bulldogs at home. Running back Kalel Mullings led the offense for the Wolverines with 92 yards on the ground as Donovan Edwards recorded a touchdown through the air. Michigan will now have to turn their focus towards the #4 Texas Longhorns as they travel to take on the Wolverines.
Michigan Wolverines Crush Fresno State Bulldogs, 30-10, Behind Defense
The Michigan football team is off to a 1-0 start this season after defeating the Fresno State Bulldogs, 30-10, at home. Quarterback Davis Warren started his first game for the Wolverines after they announced Alex Orji would be the backup. Warren had a solid game in his first start, recording 118 yards and a touchdown through the air.
Warren also had his slip-ups in the first game, throwing an interception against the Bulldogs’ defense and missing some open throws. Warren should settle in with time, but certainly showed flashes of what he can do for the Wolverines offense when he is truly on his game. Backup quarterback Alex Orji also made an appearance against the Bulldogs, recording 32 rushing yards and a passing touchdown for three yards as well.
The defense of the Michigan Wolverines was the star of the show, as Will Johnson snagged an interception and returned it for an 86-yard touchdown. The Michigan Wolverines also recorded another interception against the Bulldogs as Zeke Berry hauled one in as well. The Wolverines played like a unit and stopped the Fresno State rushing game in their tracks, allowing just nine yards on the ground.
What Do the Michigan Football Staff Need to Focus On Against Texas?
In order for the Michigan football team to defeat the Texas Longhorns this upcoming week, the Wolverines are going to need to open up their offensive playbook. The Longhorns have a great defense and adapt to what an offense throws at them very well. If Michigan commits to the run or pass game and does not diversify against the Longhorns, it could be a tough day.
The Longhorns just defeated the Colorado State Rams, 52-0, and even played their backups for the majority of the second half. Colorado State could get nothing done through the air, completing ten passes for just 59 yards and an interception. Not only were the Rams simply outclassed, but they had too much of a one-dimensional offense against the Longhorns.
On the defensive side of the ball, the Michigan football team is going to have to pay attention to receivers Ryan Wingo and Isaiah Bond. Both receivers can truly stretch the field and giving them the smallest bit of space can lead to a big play being broken off. The Wolverines need to play tight defense against Wingo and Bond to force quarterback Quinn Ewers into throwing the ball elsewhere.
On the ground, the Wolverines will have to key in on freshman running back Jerrick Gibson during their clash. The Longhorns have lost multiple running backs to season-ending injuries this season already, and Gibson is the next man up. The 5-foot-10-inch running back hits like a truck and will not be easy to stop with just one person tackling him.
Get More NFL and College Football Content
For more news and trends in the college football world, follow me on Twitter @JarrettGuerrera
