Data outlines Michigan football's offensive woes. And it's not on the players

Michigan’s offense has struggled through seven weeks, and CFBData’s Bill Radjewski says the biggest issue isn’t personnel. The article tests multiple theories—quarterback, missed big-play opportunities by running backs, regression from the offensive line, receivers not getting open, or coordinator Jason Beck’s scheme—then argues the data points to play-calling. Radjewski charted 18 categories, from second-level/open-field yards to short-yardage conversions and “stuff rate,” and Michigan ranks worse in 17 of 18 versus 2025. With a returning quarterback, lead rusher, top receiver, and five experienced offensive linemen, the main difference appears to be who calls plays. Michigan sits bottom-half in all but two Power Four metrics and is No. 135 nationally in explosive plays (20-plus yards). The piece adds that early-down success has fallen from No. 15 in 2025 to No. 113, hurting third-down frequency and effectiveness.