Michigan Football Finally Unleashes Its Talent in Opening Rout of MTSU
ANN ARBOR, Mich. — Michigan fans waited all offseason with bated breath, eager to see if the hype surrounding their team’s stacked roster would finally translate to dominance on the field. On Saturday night at the Big House, the Wolverines didn’t disappoint. No. 2 Michigan opened its 2025 campaign with a resounding 52-10 rout of Middle Tennessee State, showcasing the depth, talent, and physicality that many believe could carry them back to the College Football Playoff.
From the opening snap, Michigan looked sharp, efficient, and in control—an immediate contrast to the sluggish starts of previous seasons. Quarterback Alex Orji, making his debut as the full-time starter, delivered a composed performance, throwing for 235 yards and two touchdowns while rushing for 58 yards and another score. Orji’s dual-threat ability added a dynamic dimension to the Wolverines’ offense, keeping the Blue Raiders off balance all night.
“It felt good to finally get out there with the guys and just play our game,” Orji said postgame. “We’ve been grinding all offseason, and tonight was just the first step.”
Michigan’s offense wasted no time asserting itself. The Wolverines scored on their opening drive, marching 75 yards in under four minutes, capped by a Blake Corum 12-yard touchdown run. Corum, returning for his final season in the maize and blue, looked as explosive as ever, finishing with 104 yards and two touchdowns on just 14 carries.
But the story wasn’t just about the offense. The defense—led by a ferocious front seven and a deep, experienced secondary—overwhelmed MTSU from the start. Michigan held the Blue Raiders to just 192 total yards and forced three turnovers, including a pick-six by sophomore cornerback Ja’Den McBurrows in the third quarter that blew the game wide open.
“This group has a chance to be special,” head coach Sherrone Moore said in his postgame press conference. “They’ve been working together since spring ball, and it’s not just about talent—it’s about discipline, communication, and toughness. That’s what we saw tonight.”
The Wolverines dominated in all three phases. The offensive line, replacing three starters from last season, looked cohesive and powerful, giving Orji ample protection and creating gaping holes for the backs. Freshman right tackle Donovan Parks, a former five-star recruit, impressed in his debut, holding his own against veteran defenders and earning praise from Moore for his poise under pressure.
Michigan’s receivers also made their presence felt. Senior Roman Wilson led the team with 88 receiving yards and a touchdown, while sophomore Tyler Morris added a score of his own. The Wolverines spread the ball around effectively, with seven different players recording a reception.
Special teams also delivered, with kicker James Turner going a perfect 7-for-7 on extra points and nailing a 43-yard field goal. Punter Tommy Doman didn’t see much action, but when called upon, he pinned MTSU inside the 10 with a booming 54-yard punt.
Middle Tennessee’s lone touchdown came late in the fourth quarter against Michigan’s second-team defense, a short pass from Nicholas Vattiato to DJ England-Chisolm after a long kick return gave the Blue Raiders a rare short field.
Though Michigan was expected to win handily, the manner in which they dismantled MTSU served notice to the rest of the country: this team is loaded, focused, and ready for the season ahead.
Next week, the Wolverines face a tougher test against Pac-12 contender Washington, a matchup that could offer a clearer picture of how far Michigan’s talent can take them.
“We’re just getting started,” Corum said, smiling. “The best is yet to come.”
With high expectations and a national title on their minds, Michigan’s emphatic Week 1 performance was the kind of statement fans—and the college football world—were waiting for.
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