Michigan Offense Finally Finds Life, Keeps Slim Bowl Chances Alive

Michigan (4-5, 2-3 Big Ten) rumbled to a 34-10 victory over Indiana (3-5, 0-4 Big Ten) in a homecoming victory it desperately needed to keep its postseason bowl hopes alive. Brady Hoke’s team delivered—limiting the Indiana offense to only 191 total yards with 75 coming on its final drive of the fourth quarter.

The game marked Hoke’s first opportunity to audition for interim athletic director Jim Hackett who took over after the Friday resignation of David Brandon.

Tony Ding/Associated Press

The spotlight is now firmly on Hoke as he tries to rally his team with three games remaining in the Big Ten season. Hoke refused to discuss the turmoil in the Michigan athletic department.

“I’m not going to talk on that, I want to talk about what those kids did between the white lines,” said Hoke. “This is about the kids going out and beating Indiana.”

Michigan’s offense featured a balanced attack (184 yards rushing and 220 passing) and scored 17 points in each half. The team also split its touchdowns equally between rushing (two) and passing (two). The offensive consistency couldn’t come at a better time as the team prepares for its final road games (Northwestern, Ohio State) and its home finale versus Maryland.

Tony Ding/Associated Press

The offense was sparked by running back Drake Johnson and wide receiver Amara Darboh, who both missed last season because of injuries.

Johnson (16 carries for 122 yards, two touchdowns) seized the opportunity with back Derrick Green out for the season and fellow back De’Veon Smith slowed with a leg injury

Hoke praised Johnson’s preparation.

“He always been very motivated and a hard worker,” said Hoke “He’s getting more chances with extra repetitions in practice and that’s helped quite a bit.”

Darboh (9 receptions for 107 yards, one touchdown) was quarterback Devin Gardner’s top target and provided the offense with a deep threat to match with other wide receiver Devin Funchess. Darboh also made a key play in the first half breaking up a potential pick-six.

“I saw a linebacker jump the [route]…I hear our defensive back coaches say to hit the arm so I swiped the arm and was thankful he didn’t get the pick.”

Tony Ding/Associated Press

The play highlighted a key challenge for Michigan’s postseason prospects. Devin Gardner (22-of-29, 220 yards, and two touchdowns) is the team’s best option at quarterback but continues to make dangerous passes. Hapless Indiana was unable to take advantage, but Michigan’s remaining games will provide stiffer competition.

Hoke needs a great finish and bowl bid to make a case to keep his job.

He acknowledged the importance of making a bowl game for the development of the program—though it’s not clear if he’ll remain its leader.

“That's always something you should think about…it’s nice to get those extra days of preparation and practice.”

For now Hoke can only dream of those practices.

The next three games will determine if Michigan’s season—and likely Hoke’s tenure—ends in Columbus at the end of month.

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

Follow @PSCallihan