The Story of The Tortoise and The Hare

Patrick Semansky, AP

Michigan played the Hare in this game to Maryland's obvious Tortoise.   The Hare/Wolverines jumped out to a 28-0 to the over-matched Terrapins.   The sleepy Hare then decided to go into hibernation after half-time. 


Michigan lost the 3rd quarter 3-0 and tied the 4th 7-7.   The Wolverines could have cashed in for a late TD but decided to take a knee and close the game out. 


This game was an example of what is right and wrong with the 2017 Wolverines.   They can look dominate at times and other times look disinterested in playing.   That lack of focus can't happen in the next two weeks or the Wolverines will find themselves quickly with a 4 loss year.


Michigan passed for 145 yards and ran for another 160.  Would you be surprised to learn that Maryland out gained the Wolverines?   Maryland passed for 160 and ran for 180 yards against the Wolverine defense. 


I thought Peters played well for the most part.  Would have loved for him to put some more air under the deep ball to DPJ.  Bottom line is, he didn't turn the ball over and played a smart game.   The injuries tonight could be an issue for next week and in two weeks against the up and down Buckeyes.


Cheers

• Game was over at half-time
• Two flags on Michigan and one accepted
• No turnovers on offense
• Peters threw for 2 TD's
• Evans and Higdon combined for 130 yards rushing
• Hudson had a nice pick
• Big Mo Hurst always plays great and had a sack
• Long had a great pick and return
• Gentry had a nice TD catch
• Evans had 2 TD's

Jeers

• Another missed field goal
• Sleepy 2nd half offense and defense
• Injuries to Higdon, Long, Hill (concussion) and Gary
• Defense giving up way too many yards in the 2nd half
• Michigan getting outgained in a blowout win

You can look at this game a couple ways, Michigan won the game in the first half and didn't want to put anything more on film for the next two opponents or Michigan lost focus in a blowout in the second half.   I think the truth is in the middle somewhere.  The game was never in doubt, but I also think this team can't afford to talk quarters off against anyone.    Quinn Nordin has suddenly become an issue and Michigan's defense looks banged up and vulnerable.


ESPN's FPI has Wisconsin winning next week by 80%.  That is a lot against a Don Brown defense.  I like the Wolverines chances next weekend, but they're going to have to put together 4 solid quarters of football, not just two.



from The BIG HOUSE Blog http://mbighouse.blogspot.com/2017/11/the-story-of-thetortoise-and-hare.html