Michigan Football Offensive Coordinator Addresses Offensive Woes

Through five games this season, it’s no secret that Michigan football is lacking explosive plays on offense. Senior running back Kalel Mullings has proven to be a bright spot for the unit, but their passing efficiency ranks 121st nationally. 

In a meeting with the media, U-M offensive coordinator Kirk Campbell said it all starts with the first play of a drive. 

“Getting the first first-down is the most important (thing) in a drive,” Campbell said in a press conference on Wednesday. “You don’t want to go three-and-out. When you do, it’s detrimental to the defense, (and) detrimental to the punt team. You’re not playing complementary football.”

Although Mullings has carried the load so far, it’s likely not a winning method that could last a whole season. Campbell said they’re going to need a spark from the passing game.

“The explosiveness that we mentioned earlier in the pass game needs to show up so we have faster drives,” Campbell said. “Now, do we need to score in one, two minutes like these air raid teams? No, that’s not what we’re asking for. But it’s easier in seven, eight play drives when you have explosive plays in the throw game. Just can’t rely on the backbone of the run game to create those explosives.”

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Will the Michigan Offense Finally Get Creative?

As far as creative plays go, Michigan hasn’t been able to delve into its bag of tricks. Campbell said they need to focus on making the simple things look simple first. 

“When you’re not executing at a high level and moving the football, they’re hard to get off the call sheet,” Campbell said. “Once you start rolling first downs, you’re able to call those things.”

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