What Devastating End to Notre Dame Rivalry Means for Michigan Football

Michigan's 31-0 loss to rival Notre Dame is a devastating blow to supporters of Brady Hoke’s rebuilding program. Last year athletic director David Brandon denied that Hoke was on the hot seat, despite a 7-6 record. But after watching the Irish demolish the Wolverines, it’s hard to see how the team has improved, despite numerous offseason changes.

Michael Conroy/Associated Press

A scheduling quirk means, for the first time in 135 years, Michigan plays all three of its key rivals on the road. Of those three games, Notre Dame appeared to be most winnable, but the Michigan offense self-destructed, being shut out for first time since 1984—a 26-0 road loss to Iowa.

In his fourth season Hoke is now 0-5 on the road versus Notre Dame, Michigan State and Ohio State. Still on tap are visits to East Lansing and Columbus where Michigan will be a prohibitive underdog. Hoke is still seeking a signature win against a higher-ranked opponent on the road or at home.

Michigan actually outgained Notre Dame in total yardage (289 to 280) but was undone by turnovers—three interceptions and a fumble, while Notre Dame had none.

Michael Conroy/Associated Press

Last season quarterback Devin Gardner was dogged by bad interceptions—throws into obvious coverage—and despite Doug Nussmeier’s streamlining of the offense, interceptions sunk Michigan in this game. Gardner was under constant harassment behind an offensive line that provided little protection. The scene was eerily similar to last season’s defeats.

Entering this season expectations were high for fifth-year senior Gardner under Nussmeier’s new scheme. He and receiver Devin Funchess appeared to be poised for a historic breakout season. Against Appalachian State the duo appeared unstoppable, hooking up for three touchdowns in the first half alone.

But Notre Dame has better coaching and better athletes than Appalachian State, and its overall team speed overwhelmed Michigan.

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Now, Hoke needs to evaluate whether Gardner can lead the Wolverines to success this season or if it’s time to switch quarterbacks. Gardner is a respected leader of the team, but entering his second full season as a starter, his flaws may be too much to overcome.

Hoke also needs to take a hard look at his offensive line and consider how to better protect whoever plays quarterback. The offensive line’s lack of development has been a stunning failure under his tenure.

The excuses are running out for Hoke.

He needs to beat Michigan State or Ohio State this season to show that his program is moving forward.

If he can't then Michigan is settling for mediocrity and in danger of being lapped by its rivals.

Phil Callihan is a featured writer for Bleacher Report. Unless otherwise noted, all quotations obtained firsthand.

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All season statistics from mgoblue.com, official University of Michigan athletic department web site.