Here is a breakdown of Michigan’s improved offense from last year to now

The struggles for the Michigan Wolverines last year were centered around the lack of offense. The defense has done its part as one of the best in the country each year since defensive coordinator Don Brown’s arrival.

The 2018 season started with a seven-point loss at Notre Dame, but since then has turned into one of the best teams in the country. By improving offensive stats to a suffocating defense, this team is building momentum. Jim Harbaugh even mentioned the improved offense in his press conference to recap the 42-7 Rutgers win.

There are several impressive stats comparing 2017 to this season for Michigan, and here is how they’ve improved through 10 games this season.

2017 offense (13 games)

• 91st overall offense (348.9 yards per game)
• 25.2 points per game
• 171.2 passing yards per game
• 177.7 rushing yards per game
• 53.5% passing completion

2018 offense (10 games)

• 53rd overall offense (421.9 yards per game)
• 37.2 points per game (20th)
• 206.5 passing yards per game (86th)
• 215.4 rushing yards per game (31st)

Upgrade at QB

Let’s break down the three quarterbacks from 2017 and how they compare to Shea Patterson in 2018 through 10 games.

John O’Korn

• 84-of-157 passing attempts (53.5 percent)
• 973 total yards
• Two touchdowns, six interceptions
• 4.7 yards per pass

Brandon Peters

• 57-of-108 passing attempts (52.8 percent)
• 672 total yards
• Four touchdowns, two interceptions
• 6.1 yards per pass

Wilton Speight

• 44-of-81 passing attempts (54.3 percent)
• 581 total yards
• Three touchdowns, two interceptions
• 6.8 yards per pass

Shea Patterson

• 152-of-227 passing attempts (67 percent)
• 1,927 total yards
• 17 touchdowns, three interceptions
• 8.5 yards per pass

Shea Patterson is a huge upgrade and his numbers are definitely impressive. He’s 14th nationally in pass efficiency and has shown his talent in difficult throwing situations, and is making it look relatively easy. He creates something out of nothing, has time to throw the ball and has been accurate all season.

This highlights his ability to throw after squaring his shoulders and making the completion:

The personnel changes this offseason have paid off, as well. Ben Herbert has helped beef up the entire team, but especially Ed Warinner’s offensive line unit. The offensive front has been consistent and has eliminated the constant pressure quarterbacks were facing in 2017. Warinner has been a huge reason why.

The stats and tape show just how far the offense has improved, but the team must continue improving each week to reach their goals, and maybe even get to Indianapolis for the first time.

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