DEFENSE
Defensive Line: B+
Michigan’s defensive line helped the linebackers contain the rushing attack from MSU, holding them to 54 rushing yards. The defensive line was able to create pressure on MSU quarterback Brian Lewerke, getting two and a half sacks as defensive tackle Carlo Kemp had four total tackles and one and a half sacks. Defensive end Mike Danna finished with six total tackles and a sack as well.
Linebacker: B+
Cornerback: A-
Starting cornerbacks Lavert Hill and Ambry Thomas did well as both were able to pick off Lewerke. Hill finished with one total tackle, a pass deflection, and the interception. Thomas finished with six total tackles, a tackle for loss, and the interception. With the help of the front seven, the defensive backs were able to force Lewerke to finish the game going 17/30 for 166 yards for a touchdown and two interceptions.
Safety: B
The deep passes were rare for Lewerke yesterday so the safeties didn’t have many passes to go up against, but they were involved in the tackling game. Josh Metellus finished with six total tackles, while Brad Hawkins had three total tackles. Freshman safety Daxton Hill had two total tackles and a pass deflection
Punting/Kicking: A+
Punter Will Hart did well in the wind, punting only once for 47 yards. When it came to kicking the football for points though, Quinn Nordin was the lone kicker out there, winning the battle against Jake Moody. Nordin finished the game 3/3 on field goals with his longest from 49 yards out and was 5/5 on extra-point attempts.
Kick/Punt Return: B
Wide receiver Giles Jackson had two kick returns for 30 yards. When it came to punt returns though we saw some action. Peoples-Jones had two for 58 yards but fumbled on one of the returns. Hudson would end up blocking a punt in the fourth quarter and while he wouldn’t recover it, it would set up the Wolverines for another touchdown on their next offensive possession.