Michigan vs. Illinois: Game Grades, Analysis for the Wolverines

For what seems like the 20th time this season, the Michigan football team dominated its opponent on the gridiron. This time, it was the Fighting Illini from Illinois, and it was Wilton Speight and the Wolverines defense that put on a show to shut down the visitors 41-8. 

Continue reading to see our game grades and analysis. 

Offense

Carlos Osorio/Associated Press

In the first half, Michigan's offense was a machine. It scored touchdowns on its first four drives, including a couple of beautiful throws from Wilton Speight to his tight ends, Jake Butt and Tyrone Wheatley Jr.

However, the coaching staff looked to take its foot off the gas just a bit in the second half, as Michigan wasn't able to get into the end zone until Karan Higdon took matters into his own hands and busted out a 45-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter. 

The top performers for the offense were Speight (16-of-23 for 253 yards and two touchdowns), Amara Darboh (five receptions for 99 yards), Butt (three receptions for 40 yards and one touchdown) and Higdon (eight carries for 106 yards and one touchdown). 

Overall, it was a nice performance but left the fanbase wanting more heading into Michigan State week. 

Grade: B-

Defense

Carlos Osorio/Associated Press

So close. That's what Michigan's defense was in terms of pitching its second straight shutout in Big Ten play, as Illinois was able to get on the scoresheet with a long touchdown pass in the fourth quarter. But that didn't completely damper the performance. 

From Mike McCray making big plays to the secondary not allowing a single completion in the first half, the Michigan defense was lights out...again. 

Looking at the final box score, it may not have racked up its normal amount of tackles for loss and sacks or pitched a shutout, but the UM defense played a steady, strong game. That included only allowing 172 yards of total offense and only four completions. 

Overall, it was another solid performance for the Michigan defense.

Grade: A- 

Special Teams

Leon Halip/Getty Images

After a couple of shaky weeks on special teams, especially in the kicking game, Michigan figured things out a bit against Illinois and put together a nice performance behind the leg of Kenny Allen. 

Allen went 2-for-2 on field goals (27 and 23 yards) and also averaged 32.5 yards per punt, including sticking one inside the 20-yard line. 

As for the return game, Jabrill Peppers only had two chances at kick returns after fair-catching every punt he received. It wasn't the electrifying Peppers who Michigan fans wanted, but his presence alone had Illinois making sure it was careful with its kicking. 

Add in a partially blocked punt, and overall, Michigan had a nice day on special teams.

Grade: B