Penn State vs. Michigan: Game Grades, Analysis for the Wolverines

Going into the Saturday matchup with Penn State, Michigan fans had to feel good about their chances at celebrating a big win, as the Wolverines were huge favorites. And the team didn't disappoint. Big plays from Wilton Speight and a performance to remember from the defensive line resulted in a dominant 49-10 win over the Nittany Lions in front of a sellout crowd in Michigan Stadium. 

Check out the game grades for Michigan's blowout win over Penn State.

Offense: A

Associated Press

Michigan's offense had an old-school performance, as it ran the ball down the throat of Penn State time and time again. The offensive line had one of its best performances of the year, as the Wolverines rushed for 326 yards in total and an average of 6.7 yards per rush. De'Veon Smith put up most of those yards, breaking off multiple long runs to set up the offense and racking up 107 yards and one touchdown on 12 carries. 

As for the passing game, Amara Darboh, Jake Butt and Grant Perry led the way for the Wolverines. The only possible knock is the lack of big plays through the air, but that didn't stop Speight from hitting his receivers in stride to pick up nice chunks of yards.

Offense: A

Defense: A

Associated Press

The Michigan defense had another dominant performance. Led by the defensive line, the defense held Penn State to just 199 yards, including only 78 yards rushing on 28 carries. Saquon Barkley was the only true threat to the Wolverines defense throughout the game, as he was able to gash the defense a couple of times and put up 136 yards. However, that was far from enough. 

While the biggest news of the game was the return of Jourdan Lewis to the secondary, the defensive line wreaked havoc in the Nittany Lions backfield all game long. Michigan finished with 13 tackles for loss, six sacks and two turnovers. It was everything Michigan fans have been looking for out of Don Brown's defense.  

Defense: A

Special Teams: C

Associated Press

Jabrill Peppers started off the game with another electrifying punt return in which he was tripped up by the turf monster at the 20-yard line and fell just short of a second touchdown in as many weeks. But that was the only real chance he had. Once Penn State saw what he could do with the ball, it made sure to kick the ball away from Peppers. 

As for the kicking game, there wasn't one, as head coach Jim Harbaugh decided against kicking field goals on multiple occurrences and going for it on fourth down instead. While it worked out most of the time, it does bring up questions about Kenny Allen, who struggled kicking the ball against Colorado.

Special Teams: C

What did you think about Michigan's performance against Penn State? Let us know in the comment section below!