Michael Smeltzer

Washington Preview: What to Look For Heading into the National Championship Rematch

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Giles Jackson started his college career with the Wolverines in 2019 and 2020, is now in his sixth season and is enjoying a career year.

This Saturday night, the Michigan Wolverines travel to Seattle for a primetime showdown against the Washington Huskies in a highly anticipated rematch of last year’s National Championship game. Michigan took home the title last season, but both teams are under new leadership with new head coaches and retooled rosters. Still, the stakes are high as Washington looks for vengeance, eager to erase the memories of their championship loss.

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A Walkthrough of the USC Game Experience at the Big House

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Being there in person for Michigan’s 27-24 victory over USC was a surreal experience, one that will stick with me for a long time. The game marked the first-ever “Stripe Out” at the Big House, with alternating sections of maize and blue lighting up the stadium. The fans did an incredible job with the stripe-out—I’d give it a solid 9 out of 10. And while the fan participation was great, the most important thing was that Michigan got the win.

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It’s Alex Orji Time: Is This The Spark Michigan Football Needs?

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Alex Orji was named Michigan's starting quarterback on Monday by head coach Sherrone Moore.

In a move that has sparked a mix of excitement and uncertainty among Michigan fans, head coach Sherrone Moore announced on Monday that junior quarterback Alex Orji will take over as the starting quarterback, replacing Davis Warren. The decision comes on the heels of Michigan’s sluggish start to the season, which includes a double-digit loss to Texas in Week 2, leaving the Wolverines in need of a spark as they head into Big Ten play.

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Michigan’s Formidable Defensive Line Got Pushed Around By Texas

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Mason Graham and Derrick Moore, pictured here, struggled to keep up with the Texas offensive line.

From the opening snap, it was clear that Texas’ offensive line came to play, pushing Michigan’s vaunted defensive line around with ease. What had been one of Michigan’s biggest strengths was neutralized as the Texas O-line opened up running lanes and gave quarterback Quinn Ewers ample time to throw. The Wolverines’ front seven, which had dominated in the past, was rendered almost invisible. Linebackers like Ernest Hausman and Jaishawn Barham, both expected to be key playmakers, were rarely mentioned throughout the game, a testament to just how effectively Texas controlled the line of scrimmage.

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Was Will Johnson Playing With His Food Against Fresno State?

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Will Johnson appeared to be "playing with his food" last Saturday against Fresno State.

The one surprising vulnerability on Michigan’s defense during the first three quarters against Fresno State was All-American cornerback Will Johnson. Known for his lockdown coverage, Johnson uncharacteristically allowed several big plays, giving receivers more space than we’re accustomed to seeing from him. On a few occasions, he seemed a step behind, raising some concerns among fans watching the game.

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Michigan’s O-line Needs Work, but it’s Not Time to Panic

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Dom Giudice was up and down in his first start for Michigan.

This lack of cohesion on the offensive line was somewhat reminiscent of last season when Michigan also faced early struggles up front. However, that line eventually found its groove, contributing to Michigan’s national championship run. So, while there’s certainly work to be done, it’s not time to panic just yet. The key will be for this unit to develop chemistry and improve quickly, especially with a tough matchup against Texas on the horizon.

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Should Kalel Mullings Start at Running Back for Michigan?

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Has Kalel Mullings shown enough to be considered the starting running back heading into the Texas game?

Kalel Mullings, who many thought would be the secondary option behind Edwards, emerged as the more effective back. Mullings showcased a running style reminiscent of Hassan Haskins—durable, powerful, and decisive. He averaged over six yards per carry, demonstrating an ability to patiently follow his blocks and burst through holes with authority. His performance suggested that he should be Michigan’s starting running back moving forward.

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Michigan’s QB Rotation Needs Work Heading into the Texas Game

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Davis Warren showed some inconsistencies in his first start week 1 versus Fresno State.

In Michigan’s Week 1 matchup against Fresno State, it became clear that Head Coach Sherrone Moore and Offensive Coordinator Kirk Campbell were committed to a two-quarterback rotation strategy. The plan was to utilize Alex Orji primarily for his athleticism and running ability, while Davis Warren was expected to lead the passing attack. However, this two-quarterback system showed some cracks, particularly in maintaining offensive rhythm.

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