Michigan's Gritty Ground Game Dethrones USC in Thrilling Finish

In an intense showdown in Ann Arbor, Michigan showcased its power running game against No. 11 USC, culminating in a nail-biting 27-24 victory in their Big Ten opener on Saturday. Despite a staggering total of only 32 yards through the air—marking their lowest passing yardage since 1987—the Wolverines relied heavily on their ground game.

Leading the charge was running back Kalel Mullings, who delivered a standout performance with a career-high 159 rushing yards on 17 carries. With just 37 seconds left on the clock, Mullings scored the game-winning touchdown on a hard-fought one-yard plunge, showcasing his willpower and determination. "That's a representation of who we are," said Mullings, alluding to the team's gritty and relentless approach on the field.

Michigan's rushing attack was relentless, amassing a whopping 290 yards overall. On their decisive final drive, the Wolverines ground down the clock with 79 rushing yards, as Mullings carried the load with all eight carries during that stretch, including an electrifying 63-yard run that set the stage for the victory.

Head coach Sherrone Moore praised Mullings' resolve, stating, “A will to not give in. A will to want it more than them.” The Wolverines' ability to dominate the ground game allowed them to control the tempo and dictate the play, even as their passing game struggled severely.

While Michigan's ground game might have been the star of the show, Donovan Edwards also contributed with 74 rushing yards, including a 41-yard touchdown run. However, a critical fumble by Edwards in the fourth quarter allowed USC to take their first lead of the game on a 24-yard touchdown pass from Miller Moss to Ja'Kobi Lane.

Faced with adversity and down by a touchdown with time winding down, Michigan turned back to Mullings, emphasizing their commitment to the run. Coach Moore put trust in his offensive line and Mullings during crunch time, especially on critical fourth-and-goal plays. Quarterback Alex Orji, who was making his first start of the season, showcased his dual-threat capabilities by rushing for 43 yards, complimenting the team's offensive strategy.

Orji stepped up as the starting quarterback after Michigan opted to make a change from Davis Warren, who had struggled in recent games. While Orji completed 7 of 12 passing attempts, his running ability provided the dynamic needed to regroup after a previous loss to Texas.

Michigan rushed for 199 yards in the first half alone, a remarkable statistic that highlighted their dominance over USC, a team that had struggled to withstand such an offensive barrage since Lincoln Riley took the helm. Linebacker Easton Mascarenas-Arnold of USC acknowledged this physicality, stating, “It was just mano a mano who could win—and they just did.”

Despite the absence of All-America tight end Colston Loveland due to injury, Michigan's commitment to their running game proved triumphant. Coach Moore expressed pride in his team's performance and how they responded under pressure. This victory not only marks a significant moment for the Wolverines as they began Big Ten play but also reinforces their identity as a hard-nosed football team that can adapt and overcome challenges on the field.

As Michigan continues its quest for another successful season, fans will certainly keep an eye on Mullings and this tough-running Wolverines squad, which not only defies expectations but reshapes the dynamics of modern football. Will they continue this ground-heavy strategy against tougher opponents? Only time will tell!