Michigan Football’s Offensive Struggles Continue in 21-7 Loss to Illinois 

With a new quarterback under center No. 24 Michigan (4-3, 2-2 Big Ten) had some hope coming out of the bye week. Not much seemed to change as No. 22 Illinois (6-1, 3-1 Big Ten) took down the maize and blue 21-7. The only Michigan touchdown came from running back Kalel Mullings on fourth and goal near the end of the first half. 

New Game, Same Problems

The offense struggled as a whole on Saturday, but most of the issues stemmed from its inability to throw. Tuttle finished 20 for 32 with 208 passing yards and zero touchdowns, and five of his completions and 55 yards came on the final drive of the game. Mullings finished with 87 rushing yards and the lone touchdown. The Michigan offense was 5 for 14 on third downs, and it put itself in multiple third-and-long situations after getting stuffed on the ground. 

Much like the game against Washington, Tuttle lost a fumble and threw an interception. The Michigan offensive line didn’t help its quarterback much, as the Illinois defense recorded five sacks. All things considered, Tuttle moved well in the pocket, but he seemed to hold on to the ball too long at times and put himself in tough situations. Ultimately, it wasn’t what Michigan fans hoped to see in the passing game. 

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Defensive Line Injuries Took a Toll

Illinois ran for 187 yards, which is the most Michigan has given up in a game this season. It also marked back-to-back games with over 100 rushing yards allowed for the Wolverines. On the other hand, Michigan held Illinois quarterback Luke Altmyer to 9 of 18 for 80 yards and 0 passing touchdowns, although he did gain 48 yards and score on the ground. 

Michigan was missing Rayshaun Benny and Enow Etta up front on defense, and it was clear that the unit wasn’t at full strength. Mason Graham was tied for second on the team with six tackles, but it just wasn’t enough to stop the Fighting Illini running game.

Michigan will look to stay above .500 when it hosts Michigan State next week.

Postgame Quotes

“Three turnovers in Big Ten play, you’re not gonna win,” Sherrone Moore said after the game.

“We need to keep fighting and show some frickin’ grit for the school and the team,” quarterback Jack Tuttle said after the game.

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