The Michigan Wolverines were embarrassed on the road against the USC Trojans, getting beaten by a score of 31-13. 

The Wolverines were outgained by over 100 yards and lost the time of possession battle by nearly 7 minutes. The Trojans also had 24 first downs to Michigan’s 17 with USC being 6/12 on third downs while Michigan was just 2/9. The Trojans dominated both lines of scrimmage throughout the game after getting an early lead thanks to a poor opening gameplan from head coach Sherrone Moore and defensive coordinator Wink Martindale. The Trojans attacked the Wolverines identity and dominated as they rushed for 224 yards and averaged 6.2 yards per rush.

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR MICHIGAN?

This game was extremely concerning for Michigan as once again, Sherrone Moore completely outcoached by the opposing team’s more experienced head coach and as this trend continues, it’s appearing more and more like Moore isn’t the right man for the head coaching job at Michigan. The lack of a cohesive and rhythmic passing game and the inconsistencies in Bryce Underwood’s footwork and accuracy has to lie at the feet of the coaching staff. The offensive line, which is Sherrone Moore’s speciality, has been extremely underwhelming six games into the year which has contributed to the struggling passing game.

WHERE DO THE WOLVERINES GO FROM HERE?

Michigan’s remaining schedule is manageable with the most challenging games being at home against Washington and Ohio State. However, after suffering the second loss of the season, there is little faith that Michigan will be a playoff team this year with the best possible outcome being a 10-2 finish. If Bryce Underwood doesn’t improve as a passer and the offensive line doesn’t improve by the end of the season, it’s likely that Michigan will finish 8-4 with some very uncomfortable discussions being had about Sherrone Moore’s job security.

The Wolverines host the 5-1 Washington Huskies next Saturday and Michigan opens up as 5.5 point favorites. If Michigan has any hope of making a playoff push, they have to handle the Huskies next weekend and improve to 5-2 on the season. Running back Justice Haynes went down with an injury against USC which could mean that he isn’t playing against Washington, meaning the Michigan offense will have to find another way to score points next Saturday.