Michigan football: 3 things to look for against Bowling Green

Non-conference play is typically not very competitive for Michigan football. However, the Falcons are coming off a big win against Eastern Illinois University. BGSU was dominant on both sides of the ball, but what specifically should Michigan football be on the lookout for?

What will Michigan football need to look out for?

Connor Bazelak 

Last weekend, senior quarterback Connor Bazelak had a massive bounce-back game, making huge improvements in game two for the Falcons. Bazelak completed 23 out of 28 passes (82%) for 319 yards. He also threw for three touchdowns to three separate receivers.

Bazelak was not pressured often, which gave him plenty of time to pass the ball. When Bazelak has time, he is extremely efficient. However, when the opposing defense pressures him, he often makes impulsive decisions, which leads to turnovers. In week one against Liberty, Bazelak threw for three interceptions and was sacked twice.

Michigan football capitalizes on turnovers and turnover opportunities. If the Michigan defensive front puts pressure on Bazelak, they should be able to limit his passing ability.

Bazelak has played in Big Ten environments before, so the Big House atmosphere is nothing he won’t be used to. It shouldn’t be a huge factor in his play, so the Michigan football defense will have to be ready for Bazelak to play his best game.

Run game

BGSU’s run game is one of their biggest strengths. In two games played, the Falcons have rushed for 332 yards, averaging 166 rushing yards per game. Even in their loss to Liberty, the Falcons ran for 191 yards. 

Some notable names in BGSU’s run game are Terion Stewart and Ta’ron Keith, who are the team’s current leaders in rushing yards.

Terion Stewart: On 17 attempts, Stewart has a total net gain of 106 yards. He averages 6.2 yards per carry and has two touchdowns. 

Ta’ron Keith: On 7 attempts, Keith has a total net gain of 77 yards. While he only has 7 carries, he’s averaged 10.4 yards per carry. He has scored one touchdown so far. Keith doubles as a running back as well as a wide receiver. He is second on the team in receiving yards and has raked in 6 catches for 123 yards.

Luckily for the Michigan defense, the Wolverines practice against two of the best running backs in the country each week. Michigan football should have no trouble containing the BGSU run game.

Defensive front

BGSU’s defensive front showed out last weekend and displayed their potential as a defense. In two games, the BGSU line has seven sacks and 14 tackles for loss, totaling 61 yards.

Last weekend, there was constant pressure on the EIU quarterback, and the BGSU run defense was fantastic. EIU only rushed for 75 yards and the only way they could gain yards on offense was in their passing game.

While BGSU has standout players on defense, everyone on the field will be attempting to make an impact. The Falcon defense will be prepared to stop the Michigan football run game. BGSU, along with every other opponent Michigan football will face, will need to stop Blake Corum and Donovan Edwards if they want any chance of victory.

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