Three and out

There has been a lot of talk about the personal foul call against Shawn Crable with 6:49 to go in the game as being a turning point. Michigan was trailing 35-31 at that point in the game. Although that was important, I believe Michigan's previous offensive series was equally as important. LaMarr Woodley had recovered a fumble with about 12 minutes to go in the game. The offense took over at their own 32 yardline trailing by four points. On first down, Mario Manningham dropped Chad Henne's pass. On second and 10, Mike Hart rushed over left tackle Jake Long for 7 yards to the 39 yardline. That brought up the key play of 3rd and three. Although many people felt that Michigan should have called another Mike Hart run to the left side, Michigan instead went with a pass. Unfortunately, Henne's throw to Steve Breaston was incomplete and Michigan was forced to punt. The Wolverines inability to move the ball on this drive when they had the chance to take the lead was a devastating setback. Although Michigan had a good day offensively, the Wolverines were only 4 of 13 on third down conversions versus the Buckeyes. There was none bigger than this third down Michigan failed to convert with approximately 11 minutes to go in the game. Again, when you review the game, it was more than a personal foul penalty that led to Michigan falling three points short in this game. Go Blue!

*Note: Photo of Chad Henne (7) by Ankur Dholakia/The Detroit News