Michigan football grades from Week 14 loss against Ohio State

DEFENSE

Defensive Line: D

Michigan’s defensive line wasn’t able to create much pressure on Ohio State starting quarterback Justin Fields and backup Chris Chugunov, only getting a half a sack by defensive tackle Michael Dwumfour. Defensive end Aidan Hutchinson led the team in tackles as he was involved in many plays, finishing with 10 total tackles.

Defensive end Kwity Paye was somewhat involved as well, finishing with six total tackles, one and a half tackles for loss. They weren’t able to close holes that the Buckeyes offensive line opened up as their running back J.K. Dobbins had a fantastic game with 31 carries for 211 yards and four touchdowns.

Linebacker: C-

Cornerback: C-

The secondary was torched for a majority of the game as they didn’t have a plan to stop the Buckeyes receivers and limit Fields through the air. Lavert Hill finished with two total tackles and two pass deflections. Ambry Thomas had two total tackles as well but was beat multiple times in coverage for big gains. Vincent Gray was targeted and allowed big catches as well, finishing with just two total tackles also. Fields finished the day going 14/25 for 302 yards and four touchdowns.

Safety: C

The other part of the secondary in the safeties had troubles as they couldn’t keep up with the receivers either. Josh Metellus led the group with eight tackles but was beat on a deep pass for a touchdown. Daxton Hill got to start again this week and only finished with three total tackles as he was tested in coverage as well.

Punting/Kicking: B-

Starting punter Will Hart only punted the ball once for 58 yards, but it was midway through the game as backup punter Brad Robbins was the main guy with four for 171 yards with one landing inside the 20-yard line. It was unknown why Hart didn’t punt all game long and came midway through to only leave and never return.

Kicker Quinn Nordin was 2/3 on extra points and was 2/2 on field goals with his longest coming from 45 yards out.

Kick/Punt Return: C

Jackson had four kick returns for 80 yards, while Peoples-Jones had one punt return for nine yards as a nice return was brought back due to penalties.