ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Michigan Wolverines head coach Sherrone Moore addressed key topics, including player health, tackling issues, team mindset, and game preparation for the Washington Huskies following their upset loss to the USC Trojans.
Moore reported that Justice Haynes is improving and is hopeful to return soon.
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He commended Jordan Marshall for stepping up in Haynes’ absence, noting his physicality and pass protection.
Mikey Keene is healthy and available, with decisions on his role to be made as the season progresses.
Tackling
On tackling, Moore acknowledged the team struggled with speed and space last week, particularly with pursuit angles.
“Players have been in numerous times already to look at it and fix it,” said Moore, emphasizing ongoing focus on fundamentals.
Regarding the team’s mindset after the USC loss, Moore stressed the importance of hard work and accountability.
“No pouting, no worrying, no making excuses,” Moore said. “We got to go back to work right now.”
Moore reflected on defensive and offensive execution, noting missed opportunities in big moments like scoring drives.
He emphasized the importance of executing details in critical situations.
Adjustments
Moore discussed adjustments made after previous losses, including changes to the offensive line and efforts to challenge all positions for improvement.
He praised emerging offensive players like Andrew Marsh and Donaven McCulley, emphasizing putting players in position to make plays and keeping defenses off balance.
Moore praised Marsh’s consistency and competitive play since the bye week.
On in-game adjustments, Moore explained that the use of technology like iPads allows real-time changes but described it as a constant chess match with opponents.
Moore praised quarterback Bryce Underwood‘s poise and playmaking ability, noting progress in decision-making while acknowledging areas for growth.
He described Keene as a valuable leader and positive influence, contributing to the scout team and supporting the offense.
Washington Huskies
Looking ahead to the Washington game, Moore highlighted the challenge of containing a dual-threat quarterback in Demond Williams Jr. and a dynamic running back in Jonah Coleman, emphasizing the need for a concerted defensive effort.
Moore conveyed confidence in the team’s goals and focus, encouraging players to take it one day at a time and concentrate on improvement.
He discussed defensive depth and rotation strategies, balancing the best 11 players with effective substitutions.
Special teams
On special teams, Moore noted inconsistency in punting and the need to continue challenging the punter to improve.
Execution issues
Addressing execution issues, Moore confirmed the coaching staff self-scouts weekly to identify tendencies and make adjustments.
He rejected the notion that the defense was too aggressive against the Trojans, emphasizing the importance of doing one’s job and maintaining proper angles.
Moore highlighted offensive evolution, with key players stepping up and plans to involve tight ends more to keep defenses guessing.
Controversial calls
When asked about controversial calls against USC, Moore declined to make excuses, focusing instead on executing plays regardless of officiating.
Strategic decisions
Moore discussed strategic decisions, such as deferring after winning the coin toss, and expressed confidence in Jaishawn Barham’s role at the edge, describing him as a game changer.
Finally, Moore addressed team morale after a long flight home, acknowledging disappointment but emphasizing problem-solving and moving forward quickly to prepare for the next game.