Wolverine Digest

Two pivotal moments cost Michigan a shot against Texas

Chris Breiler

Michigan wide receiver Tyler Morris (8) makes a catch against Texas defensive back Gavin Holmes (9) during the second half at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor on Saturday, September 7, 2024.
Michigan wide receiver Tyler Morris (8) makes a catch against Texas defensive back Gavin Holmes (9) during the second half at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor on Saturday, September 7, 2024. / Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK
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While most expected a full four quarter fistfight between the Wolverines and the Longhorns on Saturday, it quickly became apparent that Michigan was overmatched on both sides of the ball. The incredible hype that surrounded the game prior to kickoff had died down by halftime, as Texas took a 21-point lead over Michigan into the break.

Although the Longhorns were clearly the better team on Saturday, there were two critical plays that really changed the trajectory of what could have been a far more competitive battle between the two blue blood programs.

1. Davis Warren interception

The Longhorns had just capped off a 12-play drive for 76 yards that led to a touchdown, extending the first half lead to 14-3. Not only was it critical for the Michigan offense to respond by putting together a lengthy drive of its own, but Michigan also desperately needed to put points on the board. Neither happened, as the Wolverines turned the ball over after just three plays.

Facing a 3rd & 2 with just under seven minutes to go in the second quarter, the Wolverines had an opportunity to move the sticks and keep the drive alive for a chance at a field goal or even a touchdown. Warren dropped back and attempted to hit Tyler Morris on a curl route. The problem is that Morris was blanketed by a defender and the ball was thrown high (possibly tipped at the line), leading to an interception for the Longhorns in Michigan territory. Texas would go on to put together a 10-play drive that led to a field goal, moving the score to 17-3 in the first half.

Bad play call, bad execution, bad results.

2. Colston Loveland fumble

With the game starting to feel out of reach, Michigan needed to respond.

On the very next offensive possession, the Wolverines looked like they may once again be able to put themselves in scoring position and cut into the Longhorns lead before the half. On 2nd & 11, Warren missed a wide open Semaj Morgan on a play that could have likely led to a touchdown. Instead, the Wolverines faced a 3rd and 11 on the next play. Warren dropped back and looked for his reliable target in Colston Loveland. The elite tight end made the catch short of the first down marker and fumbled the ball on an unforced error as he was trying to pick up extra yards.

Once again, the Wolverines turned the ball over to the Longhorns in Michigan territory with just over a minute left in the second quarter. Quinn Ewers made quick work of the Michigan defense, completing 4-of-4 attempts leading to another touchdown for Texas with 10 seconds remaining in the half. The Longhorns took a 24-3 lead into the break and never looked back.

Make no mistake, there were other issues at play that likely would have led to a loss for Michigan regardless of those two critical plays. But the reality is that you're looking at a potential 16-point swing with those two turnovers alone, which is a pretty big deal in a game that was decided by 19 points.

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Chris Breiler

CHRIS BREILER

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