QB Bryce Underwood’s PFF Nightmare: Disastrous Grade Revealed for Oklahoma Game

Michigan faced its first loss of the season on Saturday, falling 24-13 to Oklahoma. The Wolverines struggled, particularly in the first half, failing to score and only managing one significant offensive play. Quarterback John Mateer proved challenging to contain, both in his rushing and passing.

Let’s dive into how individual players performed using data from Pro Football Focus (PFF).

Offensive Standouts and Struggles

Right tackle Andrew Sprague returned from injury and performed well, earning the highest offensive grade at 72.8 with a solid pass-blocking score of 84.4. He was vital in protecting the quarterback. Receiver Donaven McCulley was the most effective receiver, with three catches for 91 yards. Justice Haynes made an impressive 75-yard touchdown run, securing a 71.6 rushing grade. However, beyond that play, the run game faltered, averaging just 2.5 yards per carry.

On the downside, quarterback Bryce Underwood had a rough night with a 42.9 overall grade and a 38.3 passing grade. Oklahoma’s defense pressured him consistently, leading to mistakes. Offensive linemen Brady Norton and Nathan Efobi also struggled with low grades in both pass protection and run blocking. This highlights a concerning trend for Michigan’s offensive line.

Defensive Performers

On defense, Michigan’s edge rushers stood out. Derrick Moore led with a 76.6 grade, showing a strong ability to rush the passer. Jyaire Hill and TJ Guy both had impressive nights, too. However, overall, the defense had difficulty managing Mateer.

While some defenders shined, others fell short. Cameron Brandt finished with the lowest grade, indicating a need for improvement. The linebackers, particularly Ernest Hausmann, didn’t meet expectations either.

Historical Context and Trends

Historically, Michigan has faced challenges in away games. This latest performance serves as a reminder of past struggles against strong opponents. In contrast, during the early 2010s, the team often thrived against similar matchups. It raises questions about current strategies and player preparedness for high-stakes games.

Conclusion

Despite the disappointing loss, there are positives. Players like Moore and Sprague did perform well, and Underwood gained crucial experience, which may benefit him in future matches. As Michigan looks ahead, addressing the weaknesses highlighted in this game will be essential for bouncing back.

For more insights into team performance and analysis, visit Pro Football Focus here.

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