ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Michigan Wolverines defensive coordinator Wink Martindale expressed pride in his team’s performance against Northwestern, highlighting their ability to hold a strong rushing offense to just 61 yards.
Martindale noted, “Anytime you take an offense like that who’s averaging 170 yards a game rushing and hold them to 61 and 242 yards total, it’s a good football team and it’s a good offense.”
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He emphasized the defense’s effectiveness on third downs and in the red zone, saying, “They were two of 12 on third down. That played a big role. We held them to three field goals in the red zone.”
Martindale also praised the rare achievement of two four-minute stops late in the game, calling it a significant factor in the victory.
He highlighted the contributions of young players in pivotal moments, especially freshman linebackers Chase Taylor and Nathaniel Owusu-Boateng, and cornerback Jordan Young.
“We had a lot of young guys in there at a pivotal time of the game and they came up big,” Martindale said.
When asked about playing many young players in key moments, Martindale credited trust in his assistant coaches.
“I got confidence in them because I got confidence in the assistant coaches,” Martindale said, praising the staff’s work in developing the players.
Rod Moore/ defensive progress
Regarding injured player Rod Moore, Martindale deferred to the medical staff but expressed optimism about the team’s defensive progress since an earlier loss to USC.
Martindale highlighted the progress his defense has made since the loss to USC, emphasizing improvement across all 11 players on the field.
“All 11, we’ve gotten better of whoever’s in there,” Martindale said.
He noted that the upcoming game against the Maryland Terrapins on Saturday, Nov. 22, will be a challenge against a “loose play offense” that operates well in space with talented athletes.
Fundementals
Martindale stressed the importance of fundamentals, especially late in the season.
“In November, you can’t get bored with high pad, you know, with low pad level,” Martindale said.
He explained that as the season wears on, many teams play with higher pad levels because maintaining discipline is difficult.
“That’s what you’re seeing with the guys up front. They’re playing with great pad level, and when they don’t, it shows up,” Martindale said.
Martindale praised several players who have stepped up, including Rayshawn Benny, Trey Pierce, Derrick Moore, and Jaishawn Barham.
“A lot of guys have played some of their best football, and to win in November, you need your best players playing their best football,” Martindale said.
Martindale said, “We’re in a good rhythm, and we’ll ride this thing as long as we can.”
Coaching staff
Martindale also praised the back-end coaching staff, including LaMar Morgan, CJ Stokes, and Brad Hawkins, for preparing young defensive backs to perform well despite lineup changes.
Rotating players
On rotating players during games, Martindale said, "Pernell McPhee‘s experience is going to keep them fresh so that they can make the big-time plays when we need to make them."
He singled out cornerback Jyaire Hill for his growth and competitiveness, noting, “If he gives up a reception, he gets mad and that’s right where you like your corners.”
Martindale shared his admiration for assistant coach McPhee, calling him “a stud” and praising his impact on the players.
Reflecting on the loss to USC, Martindale called it a wake-up call and praised the team’s character in responding.
“We didn’t flinch. We just fix it and go play the next play,” Martindale said.
Martindale also highlighted Moore’s leadership and physicality, which energize the defense.
Maryland
Looking ahead to Maryland, Martindale acknowledged the challenge posed by their talented quarterback and receivers.
Martindale acknowledged the challenge posed by Maryland Terrapins quarterback Malik Washington.
“He’s hard to slow down,” Martindale said. “He gets rid of the ball quick, he’s got a strong arm, he’s a talented kid.”
Martindale added that containing Washington will be a tough challenge for the Michigan defense.
He praised the talent and skill of the Maryland Terrapins’ receivers, not just their quarterback.
“The receivers are very talented. Their skill is very talented across the board,” Martindale said. “They’re all capable of making a big play at any time.”
He acknowledged the pressure this puts on the defense and coaching staff.
“That puts a lot of stress at least on the defensive coordinator, but it puts a lot of stress on your defense, too,” Martindale said.
Martindale emphasized the importance of fundamentals in facing such a skilled group.
“You have to tackle well, you have to play with great effort and angles,” he said. “All the pillars that we talk about.”
He added that November demands the best from the team.
“In November, you have to play with your best fundamentals, your best technique and execution, and communication,” Martindale said.
He stressed the importance of fundamentals, such as tackling and communication, to contain their offense.
When asked about the defense’s focus for upcoming games, Martindale said, “Run, hit, rinse and repeat, tackle well, fundamentally sound.”
On the team’s mindset, Martindale said, “We’re in playoff football mode. It’s turning into something closer to the NFL.”
Martindale reflected on the team’s current playoff mode, noting a different energy compared to last year.
“You know, yesterday we—what the kids say—we were vibing,” Martindale said with a smile. “Do I sound cool saying that?”
He described an energy and focus that comes at this time of year.
“There’s definitely an energy and a focus that you have at this time of year. We had it last year, too,” Martindale said.
Martindale emphasized the players’ awareness of what lies ahead.
“They know that everything they’ve worked for is still all out in front of them. So, we’ll see what happens,” Martindale said.
Linebacker room
Martindale praised the linebacker room’s resilience amid injuries and challenges.
"Brian Jean-Mary‘s done a great job," Martindale said, referring to the assistant coach. “I said it back in training camp about retooling that room, getting the guys that fit our personality.”
He added, “It’s been fun to watch. Really been fun to watch.”
Michigan will travel to College Park to take on the Maryland Terrapins at 4 p.m.