Michigan football is now set to play in the program’s first-ever national championship game against the Washington Huskies. Michigan’s semifinal victory in the Rose Bowl was aided by a strong defensive performance, including a goal line stand to win the game. After the Rose Bowl, Michigan football star defender Mason Graham was named defensive player of the game. Earlier today, Mason Graham broke down what makes the Washington football offense so deadly.
Michigan football star defender Mason Graham talks Washington offense
In the Rose Bowl, Michigan was matched up against Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe, who proved to be a strong mobile threat. This week however, Michigan will face off against Michael Penix, a quarterback who can certainly run if needed but likes to play more from the pocket. Here’s what sophomore defender Mason Graham had to say about how his playstyle should affect the defense.
“I think kind of going into this game with the same mindset,” said Mason Graham. “He can still make plays with his feet, extend plays, obviously he’s a great player on a high-powered offense. We still have to contain the quarterback as best we can and try not to let them or allow them to extend plays because that’s kind of when explosive plays happen.”
Graham continued to praise Washington’s offensive weapons all around. “Obviously Penix is a great player. I feel like they have a great offensive scheme, just a great group of guys on the offensive side of the ball that can really make plays happen, and he’s the one that makes their offense go. It all starts with him.”
The Michigan football defense will certainly have another challenge this week when they face Washington in Houston, TX for the College Football Playoff National Championship. Kickoff for the national title game is set for 7:30 EST on Monday, January 8th.
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