Michigan has more problems than a clock controversy with No. 11 Oklahoma coming to the Big House
Michigan Has More Problems Than a Clock Controversy
Bharatmorningnews.com – Michigan has more problems than the disputed final second from its 13-12 victory over Western Michigan. The Wolverines escaped on Bryce Underwood’s 47-yard Hail Mary touchdown, but an uneven offense, defensive lapses, special-teams mistakes and penalties now loom large with No. 11 Oklahoma visiting the Big House.
The closing-clock debate dominated attention after Michigan was given one final chance to score. Yet the dramatic finish did not erase a performance that raised significant concerns. Michigan had been ranked No. 16 before the game, then fell from the Top 25 after struggling to put away Western Michigan.
“That was a crazy game,” Oklahoma linebacker Cole Sullivan said.
Underwood Must Find Consistency
Underwood began with promise, guiding Michigan on an impressive opening touchdown drive and showing the mobility and arm talent that made him such a highly regarded recruit. The sophomore quarterback brought energy to the field, but the offense could not sustain that early rhythm.
Apart from the winning throw, Underwood struggled to consistently move the Wolverines downfield. Michigan has more problems than one quarterback, but its quarterback play will remain under close scrutiny against Oklahoma, especially if the Sooners slow the running game.
Coach Kyle Whittingham said earlier in the week that Underwood needs to improve to keep his starting role. Michigan’s backup is Tommy Carr, whose brother, CJ Carr, plays quarterback at Notre Dame. Both of Tommy Carr’s grandfathers are in the College Football Hall of Fame.
“I just feel like we’ve got to come out and dominate and be aggressive — how we were the first drive — every single play,” Underwood said. “We can’t get down, our energy can’t get down.”
Defense, Discipline and Special Teams Need Answers
Michigan’s problems extended well beyond its passing game. Western Michigan controlled possession after halftime and assembled a 20-play touchdown drive that consumed nearly an entire quarter. The Broncos held the ball for more than twice as long as Michigan in the second half.
That stretch exposed a defense unable to get off the field at critical moments. Against Oklahoma, prolonged drives could quickly shift momentum and leave Michigan’s offense with fewer chances to respond.
Special teams also contributed to the difficult afternoon when Andrew Marsh lost a fumble on a punt return. Michigan was penalized nine times for 80 yards, another indication that execution and discipline must improve before facing the Sooners.
A Major Test at the Big House
Michigan enters the Oklahoma game as a 6 1/2-point underdog. For Whittingham, the challenge is to turn a brief flash of strong opening-drive football into a complete four-quarter performance.
Michigan has more problems than a clock controversy because every phase of the team showed inconsistency against Western Michigan. Oklahoma coach Brent Venables and the Sooners will arrive focused on a matchup that could demand sharper decision-making, stronger defensive resistance and fewer self-inflicted mistakes from the Wolverines.
Michigan vs. Oklahoma FAQ
Why did Michigan fall out of the Top 25?
Michigan dropped out after its narrow 13-12 win over Western Michigan, a game in which the Wolverines struggled despite the dramatic final touchdown.
What decided Michigan’s game against Western Michigan?
Underwood threw a 47-yard Hail Mary touchdown on the final play after a disputed clock decision left one second remaining.
What must Michigan improve against Oklahoma?
Michigan needs more consistent quarterback play, quicker defensive stops, cleaner special teams and better discipline after committing nine penalties for 80 yards against Western Michigan.
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