The Michigan Wolverines fell behind early against the Oregon State Beavers, but took control of the game by the second quarter, cruising to a 35-7 victory.
After a disappointing beginning to the Jim Harbaugh era at Michigan, the Wolverines (1-1) answered with a 35-7 victory over the Oregon State Beavers (1-1) this week at Michigan Stadium.
The Oregon State offense looked dangerous to start the game, scoring a touchdown to cap off a 79-yard opening drive. They would force a fumble on a sack of Michigan quarterback Jake Rudock during the following drive, causing concern on the Wolverines’ sidelines.
The Beavers would not take advantage of the opportunity, however, and fumbled the ball just two plays later. Michigan took complete control at this point, out-gaining Oregon State by 267 yards to finish the game on a 35-0 run.
Rudock continued to struggle with turnovers, following up a three-interception performance against Utah last week with two turnovers today. It would not matter, though, as running back De’Veon Smith rushed for an impressive 126 yards and three touchdowns on the day.
True freshman quarterback Seth Collins was the primary source of offensive production for the Beavers, accounting for 107 of their 138 total yards. Collins would struggle with accuracy, however, and his team failed to put together productive drives after the first series.
The Michigan defense was ultimately the difference in the game. After a sluggish start, they clamped down and pitched a shutout after the opening drive, led by solid performances from linebacker Joe Bolden and defensive end Chris Wormley.
Three Stars
1. De’Veon Smith, Michigan RB (126 rushing yards, 3 touchdowns, 2 receptions, 24 receiving yards)
2. Chris Wormley, Michigan DE (6 total tackles, 4 solo, 1 sack, 3 tackles for loss)
3. Joe Bolden, Michigan LB (7 total tackles, 4 solo, 1 fumble recovery)
Odds
Michigan entered Saturday’s game as 14-point favorites. After falling behind early, the Wolverines fought back to take the lead, covering the spread early in the fourth quarter. The combined total of 42 points fell just below the over, set at 46.
Next Week
The Michigan Wolverines will look to build off of their recent success next week, as they host the UNLV Rebels (0-1) at Michigan Stadium. UNLV had no issue with offensive production in their season opener, compiling 493 total yards. Their defense struggled however, giving up 545 yards in a loss to Northern Illinois. If the two teams get into a shootout next week, Michigan will have a clear advantage.
Oregon State will hope to turn things around next Saturday, as they head home for a showdown with the San Jose State Spartans (1-0) at Reser Stadium. The Spartans featured a solid defense in their Week 1 victory over New Hampshire, but Seth Collins and the Beavers are a much more formidable opponent, and will enter the game as the clear favorite.
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