Game Review: UMass

For anybody who had any kind of doubt that the Wolverines would dominate this game, I'm sure those feelings were erased around the 15 minute mark of the first quarter. And I'm sure I won't be the only one to admit that it was nice to witness such a lopsided victory because of that feel-good emotion at the end of the day.

This game was never even close, but that does not mean it was useless. In fact, I think this was the perfect tune up game for this Saturday against Notre Dame. As I mentioned in my preview of this game, it was a great opportunity to fix some things that were really haunting the Wolverines through the first two weeks.

For starters, the offensive and defensive lines were far below average against Alabama and Air Force. In fact, it was plain ugly. Both lines are undersized and not very deep, but that doesn't necessarily mean they can't excel. It just so happens Alabama and Air Force are two of the top rushing teams in the nation. Playing a program like UMass was great for those big boys up front, giving them the confidence they need heading into the rest of the season.

Previewing Non-Conference: UMass

Michigan has a much different opponent on Sept. 15th.  This year the MAC conference welcomes a new school, the University of Massachusetts Minutemen, as it will be replacing Temple. I know some people might be scratching their heads, wondering why. It's about money. Scheduling some of the bigger name teams means revenue, and revenue keeps the ball rolling.  The former Colonial Athletic Association school decided to move into the FBS, and will have their home games played at Gillette Stadium for 2012 and 2013 while theirs is being renovated. I have to wonder what the mindset of the team will be when they have to play their home games an hour and a half away from home.

2011 Record: 5-6 (3-5)
Head Coach: Charley Molnar
Returning Starters: 15 (6 offense, 9 defense)