Michigan has mostly handled business through the first three weeks of the season, and now the Wolverines turn their attention to a Big Ten opener against Nebraska.
Through three games, Sherrone Moore’s team has shown flashes of balance on both sides of the ball. The Wolverines are averaging 452 yards per game, with 242.7 of that coming on the ground. Freshman running back Justice Haynes has been the engine, racking up 388 yards at 7.9 per carry with five touchdowns. He’s already proven capable of ripping off big gains — highlighted by a 75-yard score against Oklahoma — and he gives Michigan an every-down weapon to lean on.
Quarterback Bryce Underwood continues to settle in, completing 57.5 percent of his passes for 628 yards and two touchdowns to just one interception. He hasn’t had to carry the offense, but his ability to stretch the field has opened lanes for Haynes and fellow back Jordan Marshall. The receiving corps has been balanced, led by Donaven McCulley (158 yards) and Semaj Morgan (121 yards, one touchdown). Tight end Marlin Klein is emerging as another reliable target with 101 yards and a score.
Defensively, Michigan has been opportunistic and stout. Opponents are averaging just 14.7 points per game and only 2.6 yards per carry. The Wolverines have forced seven turnovers in three games, including five interceptions from five different defenders. Jaishawn Barham and Cole Sullivan have set the tone up front, combining for four sacks and consistent pressure.
Special teams have also been steady. Kicker Dominic Zvada is 4-for-6 on field goals, and return man Andrew Marsh has added a spark with a 20.3-yard average on kick returns.
The trip to Oklahoma in Week 2 showed Michigan what kind of mistakes can prove costly against quality opponents. In that 24–13 loss, the Wolverines failed to finish drives in the red zone and were outpaced in time of possession. Moore made no secret afterward that those issues were points of emphasis heading into last week’s 63–3 demolition of Central Michigan.
Now comes Nebraska, a team that will test Michigan’s ability to stay disciplined up front and not allow chunk plays. The Huskers will look to challenge the Wolverines’ offensive line, which has been solid but still developing its chemistry.
The keys for Michigan are clear: continue feeding Haynes, keep Underwood efficient, and win the turnover battle. If the Wolverines stick to that script, they’ll have a strong chance to open Big Ten play on a high note.
About the Author
Dalton Tinklenberg is the Founder and Media Director of The Scouting Depot, where he leads comprehensive coverage of college and professional football. He is an active member of some of the most respected organizations in sports journalism, including the Football Writers Association of America (FWAA), Pro Football Writers of America (PFWA), Maxwell Football Club, Online News Association (ONA), National Football Foundation (NFF), and the Associated Press Sports Editors (APSE).
Before launching The Scouting Depot, Dalton worked with Blue HQ Media, where he covered major sporting events such as the Indianapolis 500, the College Football Playoff, and the Pro Football Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony.
Through his professional affiliations and on-the-ground experience, Dalton combines deep knowledge of the game with recognized standards of storytelling, editorial excellence, and authenticity in sports coverage.
