Michigan's Defense Struggles After Two Games

By: Dennis Fithian

There are a lot more losses ahead for Michigan football if the defensive line doesn't turn things around. There weren't many people picking Michigan to beat Alabama in this year's opener in Dallas. The game against the Tide was supposed to be a good gauge for the Wolverines season. How would the new group on UM's defensive line hold up physically against the best offensive line in college football? No position group got a passing grade in the opener. It was complete domination by Alabama. Last week against Air Force was supposed to be a different story for Michigan as they played at the Big House for the first time this year. The Wolverines pulled out a 31-25 win but were constantly chasing the Falcons around the field on defense. Air Force rolled up 417 yards total offense moving the ball against Michigan from the start almost to an upset finish. UM Greg Mattison put the blame on himself this week talking about adjustments. The real culprit is that Michigan doesn't look like it has good enough replacements for three starters lost to graduation at this time.