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Last Week at The Wolverine Den

Michigan State 26 - Michigan 20 (OT)

Spartan Stadium

October 3, 2009 - 12 noon

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Game Summary

As has been the case in so many of the games between Michigan and Michigan State, the winner is the team the rushes the ball. Michigan had their lowest rushing total of the season while Michigan State had their highest rushing total. The result was a game that was controlled by the Spartans until a furious 4th quarter rally tied it for the Wolverines. In overtime, Michigan was unable to score and MSU won the game on the ground. The game was lost by the offense not sustaining drives, by the defense unable to stop the Spartans on long down and distance plays, by an ill-conceived fake punt inside our own 20-yard line, and by the inability to contain the QB. Michigan had only 20:14 in time of possession after having only three possessions in the entire first half. The Wolverines now rank 115th in the nation in time of possession. While the defense has had its problems, the offense was the culprit in this game. Before the last two drives in the 4th quarter, the Michigan offense had 91 total yards of offense.

It was the first overtime loss ever for Michigan after winning their first 5 overtime games. On the bright side, Brandon Graham played another strong game and got his first sack of the season (and forced a fumble on the play). Jordan Kovacs started his 2nd game at safety and had a career high 17 tackles. And, of course, Tate Forcier stepped up again to lead the team back in the 4th quarter. It was nearly a storybook ending – but just not quite…

Next it’s on the road again for the Wolverines against the undefeated Iowa Hawkeyes – in Kinnick Stadium at night.

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Steve's Prediction

35-21

Tim's Prediction

42-28

Craig's Prediction

41-17

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