The Michigan Wolverines opened their 2025 campaign with a razor‑thin 13‑12 victory over Western Michigan, a result that left more questions than answers about the team’s readiness.
Game Overview
While the final score was close, the Wolverines struggled to execute in every phase, from the quarterback position to the special teams.
Quarterback Bryce Underwood endured a disastrous debut, completing only five passes, throwing an interception and fumbling on a pivotal play, which earned him the lowest grade of his career.
The ground game faltered as well; running backs Savion Hiter and Jordan Marshall managed a combined 59 yards, and the offensive line failed to open any consistent lanes, undermining Michigan’s traditional run‑heavy identity.
Defensively, the unit limited passing yardage to under 100 but surrendered 132 rushing yards and missed a critical third‑and‑14 stop, highlighting gaps in run defense despite a solid aerial performance.
Special teams also contributed to the mess, with Andrew Marsh’s punt mishap and poor return coverage, while head coach Kyle Whittingham’s debut was marred by nine penalties and three turnovers, prompting criticism of his decision‑making.
A glimmer of hope arrived when JJ Buchanan hauled in a 47‑yard Hail Mary touchdown, rescuing the Wolverines from a potentially larger defeat.
The performance earned a D‑Minus for passing offense, a D for rushing offense, a C for passing defense, an F for rushing defense, and a D for both special teams and coaching, painting a picture of a team that must improve across the board.