Overview
- Offensive coordinator Chip Lindsey cited self‑inflicted mistakes, specifically giveaways and pass protection, as the main drag on a young, run‑first unit after a teamwide ball‑security emphasis during the bye.
- Freshman quarterback Bryce Underwood had two red‑zone turnovers in the 21‑16 win over Purdue, and his season passing metrics rank near the bottom of the Big Ten despite only three interceptions.
- Michigan continues to lean on the ground game, with Jordan Marshall rushing for 185 yards and three touchdowns against Purdue as leading rusher Justice Haynes remains week‑to‑week with a foot injury.
- The offensive line features multiple redshirt‑freshman starters, aiding the run game but contributing to pressure that has affected the passing rhythm, as coaches stress fundamentals and development.
- No. 18 Michigan (7‑2) faces Northwestern at Wrigley Field on Saturday at 12:10 p.m. ET on FOX, with Big Ten positioning and realistic playoff hopes dependent on winning out.