Michigan’s biggest flaws exposed after Texas beatdown

Michigan needs to discover its offensive identity

Last season, Michigan’s offense was a powerhouse, steamrolling to the national championship with a perfect record thanks to rushing stars like Blake Corum and Donovan Edwards. 

This year, though, the Wolverines’ offense is almost unrecognizable. In their “reality check” game against the Longhorns, the once-dominant running game stalled, with Edwards and Kalel Mullings averaging just 4.7 carries each. 

The passing game wasn’t much better, averaging only 4.6 yards per attempt and struggling to keep drives alive. Currently, Michigan sits at the bottom of the conference in total offense, and will stay there unless it overhauls the game plan.

The Wolverines need to quickly establish an offensive style that fits their strengths. With a crucial conference clash against No. 11 USC just two weeks away, they won’t have much time to experiment with their game plan.

Determine a starting quarterback 

In the past two weeks, the Wolverines have been alternating between quarterbacks Davis Warren and Alex Orji. 

However, this two-quarterback system isn’t proving to be effective and appears to be more of a hindrance than a help. Warren has shown promise with his sharp passing and confidence, while Orji, used primarily for his rushing ability, has not been as successful.

On Saturday, Texas thoroughly exposed Orji’s passing struggles, revealing why the young passer relies more on his feet than his arm. 

The Longhorn defense made it nearly impossible for Michigan to gain yards with Orji on the field. As a result, Michigan shifted its focus to Warren, but this inconsistency disrupted his rhythm and ultimately hampered the offense.

With key matchups on the horizon, the Wolverines need a more stable quarterback situation. It may be time to make Warren the full-time starter for the rest of the season.

Michigan needs to revamp its physicality 

Over the past three seasons, Michigan football has prided itself on being more physical than its opponents. However, against Texas, the Wolverines looked vulnerable on both sides of the ball.

The team that once impressed as one of the most physical and well-conditioned defensive squads in the country has lost the aggression it showed just a few months ago. Against Texas, the unit struggled with coverage, pass-rushing and run defense.

If the game against the Longhorns is any indicator of how Michigan will perform against top teams this season, the Wolverines need to boost their physicality and be more aggressive in stopping the ball.