Michigan struggling with turnovers
To say that Michigan is having turnover troubles is an understatement, since the Wolverines have a minus-seven turnover margin, per ESPN.
The Wolverines have lost the ball eight times through three games this season, including three turnovers in the first half against Miami (OH) last Saturday and three interceptions in the second half of a 31-0 loss at Notre Dame.
Although senior Devin Gardner is feeling the heat from Michigan fans, head coach Brady Hoke is firmly supporting his starting quarterback.
“You look at Devin’s numbers, and sometimes numbers can be misleading, but the guy’s got almost a 69 completion percentage. Has five touchdowns, four interceptions," Hoke told media at a press conference Monday. "Yeah, a couple errors he’d like back. I said it before, I’ve got to do some things better for him, too. It’s unfair to say this guy or that guy is the problem.”
During the Big Ten coaches teleconference on Tuesday, Hoke asserted that his defense needs to force more turnovers.
Brady Hoke says his defense has to force more turnovers. That might be the understatement of the day - U-M ranked No. 121 in turnover margin
— Josh Moyer (@ESPNJoshMoyer) September 16, 2014
Hoke hopes to improve Michigan's turnover margin against Utah (2-0) this Saturday, but the Utes are known for their strong, fast-tempo offense. Utah scored 56 points in its opener against Idaho State, followed by a 59-point showing against Fresno State.
“Their tempo (is dangerous),” defensive end Brennen Beyer told WXYZ Detroit. “As a defense, we have to get them out of their rhythm, force them to take their time, and be ready up front for their speed.”