ANN ARBOR, Mich. — It looked as if Michigan was going to have full control of the game against the undefeated Nittany Lions on Saturday. The Wolverines went right down the field against Penn State in their first three possessions, but settled for two field goals and one touchdown in the red zone while forcing two three-and-outs against Penn State.
But fluky things happened in the first half. Sean Clifford had a 62-yard run when the entire stadium thought he was going to hand the ball off on third down. J.J. McCarthy threw a pick six on a tipped ball that ricocheted off a Nittany Lions’ helmet and settled in the hands of Curtis Jacobs who took it to the house.
Michigan entered halftime leading, 16-14. The Wolverines outgained Penn State 274-83 and had 18 first downs compared to Penn State’s one in the first half.
The second half was similar to the first half, except for Michigan also dominating the scoreboard.
Michigan outscored Penn State 25-3 and the duo of Blake Corum and Donovan Edwards went wild. The defense continued its dominance and the game ended with the Wolverines entering their bye week undefeated after a 41-17 win.
Here are my five takeaways from the Michigan win.