Pro Football Focus grades Michigan as nation's best in key statistic
Michigan’s pass rush was critical in its 49-24 win over Minnesota on Saturday night.
The raw numbers were excellent — five sacks, eight tackles for loss, a QB hurry and scoop-and-score that gave the Wolverines their first lead of the game.
However, the advanced stats were even better. Pro Football Focus graded out Michigan as the best pass rushing unit in the country for its efforts vs. the Gophers.
Highest-graded pass-rush units in Wk 8
1. Michigan – 83.9
2. Kansas State – 83.8
3. Houston – 81.5
4. Penn State – 80.1 pic.twitter.com/hfSHUIebsG— PFF College (@PFF_College) October 26, 2020
Michigan just edged out Kansas State for this honor after the Wildcats’ dominating win over Kansas.
Kwity Paye led the charge for the Wolverines, recording two sacks and three tackles for loss. On the scoop-and-score, it was Michael Barrett with the forced fumble and Donovan Jeter with the touchdown. Barrett finished with seven total tackles and 1.5 tackles for loss.
The Gophers were missing multiple starting offensive linemen on Saturday night, but this was still a dominant performance from Michigan’s pass rush.
They’ll look to duplicate that production on Saturday as they face Michigan State in Week 2 action.