Getting offensive: Michigan’s Mike Hart was good for guaranteed delivery every time he touched the ball, rushing 35 times for 187 yards and two touchdowns. Irish’s James Aldridge had 51 yards rushing.
On the defense: Michigan linebacker Shawn Crable camped in the Irish backfield, recording five tackles for loss, including two sacks. Irish defensive tackle Trevor Laws had seven tackles and two TFLs.
The number: 14. Consecutive quarters without an offensive touchdown for the Irish.
They’re still talking about: Coach Charlie Weis opening the game with tailback Armando Allen alone in the backfield, with four wideouts, setting up a direct snap to the speedy freshman. Said direct snap sailed directly over Allen’s head and back to the Irish’s 1-yard line. Barely anything Weis has whipped up this year has worked.
Sick bay: Linebacker Maurice Crum and guard Dan Wenger suffered left leg injuries in the third quarter and did not return. Crum limped off; Wenger was helped off.
Audible: Sam Young switched from right tackle to left tackle. Paul Duncan did the opposite. Ten different offensive linemen shuffled in and out of the game.
Looking ahead: It’s simple for the Irish. Beat Michigan State at home this week or register the worst start in school history.