Kalel Mullings was Michigan’s hero of the thrilling Week 4 win over USC. While his latest score in Week 5 was not quite as dramatic, he still jumpstarted the Wolverine offense against Minnesota in Week 5.

On Michigan’s first drive of the game, Mullings’ number was called on 3rd-and-1 from just outside the red zone. The blocking opened up a massive hole on the left side of the play, and it was off to the races for Mullings.

His scoring run came from 27 yards out and gave Mullings 4 carries for 29 total yards and the touchdown on the opening drive. Also of significance, Michigan finished 3-for-3 on 3rd downs to open the game.

While it is unlikely quarterback Alex Orji will be asked to air it out in his 2nd career start, he did look solid on the opening drive. He completed 2-of-3 passes for 15 yards and also picked up a first down with a 15-yard carry vs. the Gopher defense.

A vicious facemask penalty sustained by Orji also delivered 15 yards via a penalty on Minnesota. Fortunately, he was not injured on the tackle after his helmet was twisted severely to the side.