Michigan's 4-2 Record Masks Deep Offensive Identity Crisis

Michigan enters its seventh week of the season with a 4-2 record, but as Sports Illustrated first reported, the team does not resemble a College Football Playoff contender. While a 10-2 finish could potentially earn a playoff selection, the path requires victories over Rutgers, Michigan State, Indiana, UCLA, Oregon, and Ohio State following consecutive losses to Minnesota and Iowa.

According to Sports Illustrated, the primary struggle is an identity crisis on offense. Offensive coordinator Jason Beck has attempted to implement a high-powered system reminiscent of his time at Utah, but the report suggests Michigan is attempting to run a Big 12/Pac 12 style offense with a roster built by old-school Big Ten coaches who prioritize a downhill running game.

This systemic friction has led to poor production from key personnel. Quarterback Bryce Underwood has struggled with turnovers and has not met expectations associated with his public salary, which has resulted in him sitting on the bench. Sports Illustrated notes that Beck's formations have been too easy to defend, contributing to an anemic passing game.

Further compounding the issue is a lack of production from the supporting cast. While receiver Andrew Marsh has been inconsistent, the run game has largely stalled. Before a game against Penn State, the team's only run over 20 yards was a 38-yard touchdown by Underwood against Oklahoma. Despite expectations that Jordan Marshall and Savion Hiter would approach 1,000 rushing yards and the offensive line would be a Joe Moore Award finalist, Sports Illustrated describes the line's performance through six weeks as inexcusable.