Photo Credit: Mark Kolanowski/MGoFish

Red Zone Woes Continue: 2017 Michigan-Air Force Game Recap and Highlights

Posted onAuthorGarrett Fishaw

Another ugly one for the young Michigan team as the Wolverines knocked off Air Force 29-13, thanks to a big showing from both the special teams and defense. As for the reason why it was so close? That was all on the red zone offense as Speight and the boys went 0-4 in the red zone today and is now 1-9 in the scoring area this season. It’s obviously the biggest issue for the coaching staff and players to figure out moving forward.

Some would put the biggest issue on Speight but, while he hasn’t been good, he’s far from the only problem with the offense. The offensive line, running backs, receivers and play callers need to step up their game to get things going again. But that doesn’t mean Air Force’s defense wasn’t good. The Falcons’ D held the Wolverines to just 359 yards and one garbage time touchdown.

Luckily, Michigan has a fantastic defense full of speedy, athletic, aggressive players and, legitimately, one of the best kickers in the country to go along with a solid special teams. And that was the difference today.

Standouts

  • LB Devin Bush Jr 
    • Once again, he was the best player on the field. Though he’s undersized for a traditional linebacker, his speed and nose for the ball is elite as he continues to make huge plays throughout the game. He especially flashed that speed in the first half with a long chase and sack to push the Falcons back on one of their only pass attempts of the game.
  • WR Donovan Peoples-Jones
    • The freshmen phenom introduced himself to the world today with the longest punt return touchdown since Steve Breaston eleven years ago. And it was much needed as it was what separated the two teams in the middle of the game. He also flashed his big play ability with two quick passes. You’d have to think this performance is gonna be enough for the staff to open things up for him and give him some more opportunities down the field.
  • K Quinn Nordin
    • Mr Heisman front runner himself continues to prove Harbaugh right for the sleep over recruitment as he went 5-5 on field goals and 2-2 on extra points, out scoring both the Michigan offense and the entire Air Force team. While I only joke about the Heisman talk, he has solidified himself as one of the biggest weapons on this team and a star in the making.
  • Other Options:
    • LB/S Khaleke Hudson
    • LB Mike McCray
    • S Josh Metellus
    • CB Lavert Hill 
    • CB David Long 
    • TE Zach Gentry

Check out the highlights from the 2017 Michigan Wolverines vs. Air Force game (via WolverineDevotee):

What were your thoughts on Michigan’s 3rd win of the season? Think there’s a need to change things up on the offensive side of the ball? Let us know in the comment section below! 

Garrett Fishaw
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