No. 3 Michigan (9-0, 6-0 Big Ten) had absolutely no problem with their latest opponent, Maryland (5-4, 2-4 Big Ten). The Wolverines picked up a 59-3 victory over Maryland to remain undefeated this season and also assuring Michigan fans another week of steep discounts on steak dinners.
A week after handling Michigan State, it has become more and more clear there is almost nobody in the Big Ten that can slow down Jim Harbaugh and his Wolverines. Maryland was down 45-0 before managing to put a measly three points on the scoreboard in the fourth quarter. Can we just fast forward to Michigan-Ohio State already?
Michigan quarterback Wilton Speight had a big afternoon, completing 19 of 24 passes for 362 yards and two touchdowns and a rushing touchdown before getting the rest of the game off. Jehu Chesson (112 yards, 1 TD) and Amara Darboh (77 yards, 1 TD) and Jake Butt (76 yards) were Speight’s top targets. De’Veon Smith carried the football 19 times for 114 yards and three scores.
Maryland lost quarterback Perry Hills to an apparent injury in the first half, and Caleb Rowe was unable to lead the offense against Michigan to much success. Rowe was picked off twice and completed just 12 of 23 pass attempts for 203 yards. Hills became the ninth quarterback this seaosn knocked out of a game by Michigan’s defense. An arguably late hit on Hills was uncalled by Big Ten officials in this one.
Michigan may face an interesting challenge next week when the Wolverines leave the state of Michigan for just the second time all season. Michigan plays at Iowa next Saturday night. The Hawkeyes will be coming off a primetime road game at Penn State. Iowa has held four opponents to fewer than 10 points in a game this season, although Michigan will pose the biggest challenge to the Hawkeyes they have faced all season.
Maryland’s quest for postseason eligibility will not likely be very easy the next couple of weeks. Maryland hosts Ohio State next week and travels to Nebraska the following week. Maryland’s bowl hopes may just have to be on the line in the regular season finale at home against Rutgers.