Passing attack

Offensive Coordinator Mike DeBord unveiled Michigan's downfield passing attack against Notre Dame with great success. After limiting the passing game primarily to short passes during the first two games, DeBord let QB Chad Henne throw downfield against the Irish. In game two against CMU, only three of Henne's 11 completions (on 19 attempts) were thrown beyond 10 yards. Against the Irish, Henne was 8-of-12 passes for 165 yards, 3 touchdowns and 1 int. in the first-half. Henne's three TD passes (all to Mario Manningham) went for 69 yards, 22 yards, and 20 yards. All three TD passes were perfectly thrown balls.

Michigan went to more of a ball control offense in the second-half and Henne managed the game well as the offense did not commit any second-half turnovers. Henne completed 5-of-10 passes for 55 yards while guiding the offense to two second-half field goals. Most importantly, the offense chewed up the clock while the Wolverines had a big lead as Michigan had the ball for 10:53 of the 3rd quarter which prevented Notre Dame from getting back into the game. Go Blue!

*Note: Photo of Coach Carr congratulating QB Chad Henne by John T. Greilick/The Detroit News