Michigan Running Game Vs. Notre Dame Run Defense
Michigan exploited two of the primary preseason concerns of the Irish — linebacker and interior tackles — especially with constant cutback runs in which the fits were regularly over-pursued by the linebackers and the reads of the Wolverine backs were well timed while the Michigan line achieved consistent push.
Hassan Haskins entered the game with 217 yards rushing but shredded the Irish for 149, while Zach Charbonnet added 74 with two scores. They averaged 6.4 yards per their 35 carries and both 220-pound backs frequently picked up many yards after initial contact.
Advantage: Michigan
Michigan Passing Game Vs. Notre Dame Pass Defense
Quarterback Shea Patterson had only 30 yards passing after three quarters, mainly because the Wolverines had established a comfort level and rhythm with the run, notably 18 consecutive plays in the first half that were not passes (albeit some on quarterback scrambles).
Yet in the 21-point fourth quarter, Michigan quarterbacks were 5 of 6 for 104 yards when the rain had abated and the Irish were focusing on trying to halt the 303-yard ground attack.
Advantage: Michigan
