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Rapid Reaction: Michigan uses 21-point second quarter to down Maryland
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Final score: Michigan 35 Maryland 10
Quick recap
This game could’ve been divided into two halves, and you’d have a different winner for each. Michigan was the clear victor through the first two quarters, taking a 28-0 lead into the locker room. But Maryland was the better team in the second half and put up a better fight than most expected.
For the Wolverines, a team that’s had some trouble closing this season, that’s not exactly how you wanted the game to end.
No, Michigan was never in jeopardy of losing the game, but Jim Harbaugh would’ve probably liked to see his team step on Maryland’s throat a little bit in the final 30 minutes of the game, especially with Wisconsin and Ohio State around the corner.
Michigan was pretty well-balanced offensively, but probably would’ve liked to see a little more production on the ground against a Maryland defense that struggles against the run. But an injury to Karan Higdon late in the first half probably affected that effort.
There are definitely some things to improve on for the final two weeks, but Michigan had a solid performance in College Park to get to 8-2 on the year.
Key play: Josh Mettellus blocked punt
Michigan was already ahead 21-0 when Mettellus busted through the front line and blocked a Wade Lees punt in the first half. Not only did he block it, he could’ve just taken the ball off of Lees’ shoe if he really wanted.
Two plays latter, the Wolverines were able to get the ball into the end zone again, pushing the lead to 28-0.
Stat of the game: Michigan’s really clean game
So, that’s not exactly a stat in the traditional sense. But Michigan didn’t have a single turnover or penalty until about the two-minute mark in the fourth quarter. That’s a really good recipe for success and something the Wolverines need to replicate in the next two weeks.
Michigan will be outmatched by Wisconsin and Ohio State and will need to play exceptionally well to win. Hanging on to the football and not making mental mistakes will be key moving forward.
What it means:
There’s still an opportunity for Michigan to make a quality bowl and have a say in the College Football Playoff. With Wisconsin beating Iowa, the Badgers are a perfect 10-0 and will be one step closer to getting one of those bids.
That will be a nice added incentive for the Wolverines.
Higdon’s injury could be significant if it keeps him sidelined for awhile. He’s been Michigan’s top ball-carrier and has been on a tear over the last five weeks. Arguably, Higdon is the top offensive weapon for the Wolverines. If he’s not healthy, it’s going to be really tough for the Wolverines to generate offense in the final two games.
Dustin grew up in the heart of Big Ten country and has been in sports media since 2010. He has been covering Big Ten football since 2014. You can follow him on Twitter: @SchutteCFB