Booster Pressures Sherrone Moore After Ohio State Blowout

Michigan’s loss to Ohio State in Week 14 was more than just a bad day. It was a tough moment for the whole fanbase. The Wolverines fell 27–9 at home, and many people in Ann Arbor were not happy with how the team looked. For a program used to playing at a high level, this loss felt like a major step backward.

Michigan booster and Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy spoke openly about the team’s struggles on The Triple Option on Dec. 2. He said Michigan should never settle for a 9–3 season. Portnoy pointed out that the Wolverines were underdogs in three big games this year—against Oklahoma, USC, and Ohio State—and they were “squashed” in all of them. He said Michigan didn’t look close to winning any of those matchups.

The game against Ohio State started with a good break for Michigan. Julian Sayin threw an interception on the Buckeyes’ first drive, and Michigan turned it into a field goal for a 6–0 lead. But that was the only bright moment. Ohio State’s defense, which allows only seven points per game, took control and shut the Wolverines down.

Portnoy explained that it wasn’t nerves or one mistake. Michigan simply wasn’t strong enough to compete with top teams this season. “We have no business beating Ohio State right now,” he added, saying Michigan got pushed around in every big game.

Sherrone Moore is not on the hot seat after finishing 9–3, but messages like Portnoy’s show that fans expect more. Michigan has built high standards, and many supporters feel this season fell short of them.

Michigan’s Season Still Had Bright Spots

Even though the Wolverines missed the playoffs, the season wasn’t all bad. Michigan finished with nine wins and stayed in the playoff hunt until the final week. The team was also one of the youngest in the Big Ten.

Freshman quarterback Bryce Underwood had a strong first year. He threw for 2,229 yards, nine touchdowns, and six interceptions. Michigan also had six freshman starters on offense and four on defense, which shows how young the roster was.

Injuries also hurt the Wolverines, especially at running back. Losing Justice Haynes and Jordan Marshall made it harder for Michigan to run the ball, which is usually a big part of their game plan.

The team wasn’t perfect and dealt with a lot of challenges, but they still fought hard every week. With more experience, better health, and some offseason improvements, Michigan has the pieces to come back even stronger next year.

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