The Michigan Wolverines defeated the Washington Huskies 24-7 on Saturday afternoon at Michigan Stadium to improve to 5-2 on the season.
Here are key takeaways from the game.
Underwood was steady
Michigan quarterback Bryce Underwood
played turnover-free football and often made the right decision against the Huskies, going 21-of-27 for 230 yards. Underwood seemed poised and in command while connecting on completions to seven different targets. This wasn’t a flashy day by Underwood, but it didn’t need to be — Underwood was efficient, did what was asked of him, and played winning football.
Defense gets back on track
After an abysmal showing against USC, the Michigan defense fared much better against a Washington team that ranked No. 17 in total offense. Michigan held Washington to just 249 total yards and just 40 rushing yards. Washington quarterback Demond Williams Jr. had 10 passing touchdowns and one interception heading into the game, but was 20-of-32 against Michigan for 209 yards with three interceptions and no passing touchdowns. Michigan generated a pass rush after not having much of one at all against the Trojans. Michigan had seven tackles for loss and two sacks versus the Huskies. Michigan defensive coordinator Wink Martindale received warranted criticism heading into the game, and Martindale deserves credit for getting the most out of his players against Washington and calling a much better game.
Jordan Marshall has a stellar day
With lead running back Justice Haynes ruled out against Washington, Jordan Marshall was RB1 and had an impressive game. Marshall rushed 25 times for 133 yards with a touchdown while also catching three passes for 20 yards. Marshall plays with physicality between the tackles and can also make defenders miss. Marshall has a nice, balanced approach to his running prowess, and it’s clear Michigan’s rushing attack is in good hands, whether it’s Marshall getting carries or Haynes.
Reserve tight ends are impressive
With Marlin Klein and Hogan Hansen not playing, it was Zach Marshall and Deacon Tonielli leading the charge at tight end. Marshall led Michigan with five receptions for 72 yards with one touchdown, while Tonielli had three receptions for 38 yards. Both tight ends ran good routes, displayed steady hands, and found ways to get open. Marshall and Tonielli should be utilized more moving forward, regardless of the statuses of Klein and Hansen.
Zvada misses again
After going 21-of-22 on field goal attempts in 2024, Michigan kicker Dominic Zvada missed his third attempt of the season against Washington. Zvada missed a 48-yard attempt wide left and is now 8-of-11 on the season. While Zvada could revert to his ‘24 form, Michigan can’t bank on him to be automatic from here on out.
Renewed hope
Things were looking bleak for Michigan heading into this matchup after losing 31-13 to USC. A loss to Washington would have been the demise of Michigan’s playoff hopes. However, they put together a solid effort against now 5-2 Washington and still have a chance at the playoffs if they’re able to win out.
