Sydney McKinney-Williams, Staff Writer
RB Blake Corum gets embraced by his teammates. Photo//Isaiah Hole/WolverinesWire/USA-TODAY Sports.
The University of Michigan football team did not disappoint this past Saturday as they beat UConn 59-0 to close out their non-conference schedule. Coming off another dominant win against Hawaii in the Big House last weekend, Michigan was ready for more.
In the first quarter, Michigan made their presence known on the field, taking about two minutes to score within four plays. Running back Blake Corum took in his first touchdown on a 20-yard run to cap off the 72-yard opening drive. Michigan was out to a 17-0 lead after the first quarter, and it became evident which team was going to emerge victorious.
As the second quarter came around, Michigan refused to lift off the gas. The Wolverines were not making it easy for UConn’s defense at all as they racked on three more touchdowns in the second quarter, two more Corum scores and a 61-yard punt return TD from A.J. Henning. Michigan went into the halftime break with a 38-0 lead.
Because of the big lead, Michigan elected to play most of their backups in the second half. Seven different QBs saw the field in relief of sophomore starter J.J. McCarthy: graduate student Cade McNamara, graduate student Alan Bowman, freshman Jayden Denegal, senior Andy Maddox, freshman Brandon Mann, freshman Alex Orji, and sophomore Davis Warren.
Corum picked up his fifth TD of the game in the third quarter. Michigan added two more touchdowns in the fourth quarter, wrapping up the contest with another Wolverines blowout win.
University of Michigan’s defense celebrating. Photo//Isaiah Hole/WolverinesWire/USA-TODAY SPORTS.
Michigan’s defense also contributed to this dominant victory, only allowing 64 total yards (12 passing yards) for UConn in the first half.
The defensive line was constantly getting switched around, so UConn never saw the same guys and were kept on their toes all game. UConn only got six first downs the entire game, showing that they never had a chance to get comfortable on offense.
Following three dominant victories, the real season starts for Michigan as they begin their Big Ten conference schedule. The #4 Wolverines (3-0) will host Maryland (3-0) at the Big House on Saturday at noon.