ANN ARBOR, Mich. — Kalel Mullings showcased his skills by rushing for 92 yards and achieving a personal milestone with three touchdowns, propelling Michigan to a substantial 50-6 victory over Northwestern on Saturday. This triumph enabled the Wolverines to secure bowl eligibility, an important achievement as they prepare for a challenging match against their rivals, the second-ranked Ohio State, slated for next week.
Michigan, now standing at 6-5 overall and 4-4 in the Big Ten, faced a must-win situation to keep their postseason hopes alive, especially after recent performances where they lost four out of five games. Northwestern, on the other hand, fell to 4-7 with a 2-6 conference record, which may effectively eliminate their chances of participating in a bowl game following this defeat.
The Wolverines’ defense made an immediate impact with Aamir Hall’s spectacular diving interception on Northwestern’s opening drive. Kalel Mullings capitalized on this momentum, scoring on a 2-yard run during Michigan’s following possession, marking the first of his three touchdowns. He continued to dominate with two additional runs to the end zone during the third quarter.
Field goals by Luke Akers during the second quarter helped Northwestern close the gap to 10-6. However, this would be short-lived as Michigan responded with an impressive scoring streak, netting 40 unanswered points. The action began with Davis Warren connecting with Colston Loveland for a 3-yard touchdown pass just before halftime.
In the fourth quarter, both Donovan Edwards and Tavierre Dunlap contributed to the growing lead with 20-yard touchdown runs, complemented by a field goal and a safety, making this Michigan’s highest-scoring game since they reached 52 points on two occasions last season. Warren also set personal records by completing 26 of 35 passes for 195 yards, with one touchdown but also one interception.
Northwestern’s starting quarterback, Jack Lausch, completed 10 of his 21 passes for 106 yards, experiencing challenges of his own as he matched his career high with two interceptions.
In a notable pregame moment, Bryce Underwood, the top-rated quarterback who recently switched his commitment from LSU to Michigan, posed for a picture alongside Connor Stalions, a sign-stealer and former volunteer coach for Underwood’s high school team.
Regarding the season, Northwestern’s coach David Braun took over after Pat Fitzgerald’s departure amid a hazing controversy in July 2023. Despite his appointment as the Big Ten Coach of the Year, the Wildcats have had a disappointing season compared to their successful finish last year, where they won four consecutive games and secured a bowl victory.
For Michigan, the week proved positive with the acquisition of Underwood and a path to bowl play following a troubling stretch where they faced a significant downturn. The upcoming week will be crucial as Michigan prepares for Ohio State, who currently hold a 10-1 record. The game promises to be challenging for the Wolverines, who will aim to snap their recent losing streak against a team that has claimed the Big Ten title three times in a row.