Domination
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by Tyduffy
Congratulations fellow Wolverines! We can now show our faces in public again.
There is nothing to re-energize a dejected fan-base like a win against Notre Dame, particularly when you unquestionably dominate them in every facet of the game for 60 minutes of pure unadulterated beat down. The win provided a much needed catharsis for the players, who finally got to buckle down and play a traditional offense. The emotion, the frustration and the anger all came out on an unfortunate Notre Dame team that tucked into the fetal position from the opening kickoff.
38-0 does not do this win justice, as Michigan took their foot off the gas in the second half. Here is a better stat, rushing yards (Mich:289 ND: -6). Their defensive line and linebackers ran through ND's feeble offensive line unimpeded, like Indian food through some poor soul's gastrointestinal track.
The game was billed as two storied programs in similar crisis mode, but there was a distinct difference. Michigan played badly. Notre Dame was just plain bad. Their defense is below average. Their offense, groomed by the fat guru, is the worst in Division I football, and has now gone 3 games without scoring a touchdown.
Teams in the Big Ten should be worried about facing Michigan. This team has already been to the lowest depths that the program can go. They suffered their two worst losses of the modern era, back to back at home. It can't get any worse than that. For maybe the first time under Bo and his scions, they don't have the expectations and the pressure constantly upon them. Normally, Michigan teams are favored and play not to lose. This team has nothing to lose, no pressure, and can let loose and go after teams. This mentality, combined with the potential talent at Michigan's disposal is a dangerous combination for any team.
This certainly wasn't the season that Michigan was expecting, but if they can turn it around, it may be far more gratifying.
Originally published here.
