The Michigan Wolverines survived their first game without Wilton Speight, though it wasn't pretty. The offense sputtered for most of the game, but a strong second half performance from De'Veon Smith propelled the Wolverines to a 20-10 victory over Indiana. Here are three things we learned from the game:
3) There is reason to be concerned about the offense
Yes, the offense was expected to take a step back without Speight under center, but this is now two straight games - one with Speight, one with John O'Korn - in which the offense has looked dismal. They've combined for 485 yards over the last two games, which is below their yards per game average during their 9-0 start. Michigan's defense has been able to carry the load so far, but the offense needs to get back to putting up over 400 yards per game - instead of barely over 200 - if they want to make a serious national championship run.
2) Offensive line must get back to dominating
One of the big reasons behind those offensive struggles has been the poor play of the offensive line. After being arguably the most dominant unit in the country over the first half of the season, they were suddenly taken advantage of by both Iowa and Indiana. They aren't opening up as many holes in the running game (3.8 yards per carry over last two games) and allowed two sacks in each of the last two games (on minimal dropbacks), along with an abnormally high number of pressures.
If they can get back to doing their job at a high level, every one else's job will become easier and this offense will be back on track in a big way.
1) Ride De'Veon Smith
Michigan ranks in the top 20 in the country in rushing and have used a well-balanced rushing attack to do so. Four different players have rushed for at least 400 yards this season, but Smith has easily been their best back all year - when he gets the ball. He got at least 20 carries for the first time this season against Indiana, and responded with a career-high 158 yards and two touchdowns. Smith has actually responded to an increased workload all season - over 55 percent of his yards have come in the four games in which he had over 15 carries, and did so averaging 5.4 yards per carry (compared to his 4.9 average this season).
You need to ride your best players in the biggest games of the year, and the Wolverines would be smart to give Smith the ball and get out of his way.
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