The Michigan defense has become the face of this young and talented team, and they’re turning into one of the best units in the country. After four games, the Wolverines lead the nation in total yards allowed at 203.3 per game. One player that’s rising up with impressive stats is defensive end Chase Winovich. His performance against Purdue also earned him Walter Camp Defensive Player of the Week honors.
@TCUFootball RB Darius Anderson @UMichFootball DE Chase Winovich are @WalterCampFF FBS Players of Week @GenUCAN https://t.co/FlCntQrc1g
— Walter Camp Football (@WalterCampFF) September 24, 2017
Winovich is leading the Big Ten in sacks with six over the first four games with Devin Bush right behind him with 4.5, and their 10.5 sack total is more than 11 other conference team totals. Winovich’s three sacks against Purdue was the first time a Michigan player had that many in a game since 2008, as Maize N Brew’s own Drew Hallett reported.
Chase Winovich's three sacks vs. Purdue were the most by a Wolverine since Brandon Graham had three vs. Michigan St. in 2008.
— Drew Hallett (@DrewCHallett) September 24, 2017
Trash Talkin’ Adds Motivation
Purdue’s Gregory Phillips caused a stir by guaranteeing a victory over Michigan in comments he made to ESPN in the week leading up to the game. Unfortunately for Phillips, he wasn’t able to back up his statement.
After the game, Winovich spoke about their opponents talking trash before games. He said that Phillip’s comments provided some added motivation for Michigan’s young and hungry team.
Winovich on opposing teams talking before games. pic.twitter.com/c2kEnVrkN1
— Micah Gabler (@Micah_Gabler) September 24, 2017
The upcoming bye week will give Winovich some extra time to work on his game before the matchup against Michigan State, including his dance moves and hand shakes. Defensive Coordinator Don Brown is all about developing "Dudes," and Chase is definitely one of them.
Beat thing I've seen this year.
— Due# (@JDue51) September 24, 2017
Watch @Chase_Winovich at the end of this play. pic.twitter.com/FiVZjSRnpr