Here is where Michigan ranks in all of the nation's most important statistical categories following its 21-7 defeat of MSU.
Offensive Statistics
Points per game: 29th (36)
Rushing yards per game: 32nd (212.7)
Passing yards per game: 94th (207.6)
Offensive yards per game: 56th (420.4)
First downs per game: 81st (20.6)
Turnovers lost: 13th (7)
Third down conversion percentage: 16th (47.7%)
Red zone touchdown percentage: 74th (60.6%)
Tackles for loss allowed per game: 41st (5.3)
Sacks allowed per game: 42nd (1.6)
Defensive Statistics
Points allowed per game: 6th (14.4)
Yards allowed per game: 1st (220)
Rushing yards allowed per game: 7th (97.1)
Passing yards allowed per game: 1st (122.9)
First downs allowed per game: 6th (15)
Turnovers gained: 85th (9)
Sacks per game: 18th (3)
Tackles for loss per game: 24th (7.6)
Opponent third down conversion percentage: 11th (28.7%)
Special Teams Statistics
Average yards per punt return: 57th (9.2)
Average yards per kick return: 70th (20.5)
Average yards per punt: 3rd (49.5)
Field goal percentage: 61st (73.3%)
Miscellaenous
Penalties per game: 106th (7.8)
Turnover margin: 43rd (+2)
Takeaways
• Michigan's total defense had ranked second nationally (behind Miami) entering the game, but took over college football's top spot in a big way. They are now yielding 220 yards per game, which is 17 fewer than Miami's next best mark of 237.
• After surrendering 15 rushing yards to MSU, the Wolverines' rush defense statistics also made a big jump up the national rankings. They skyrocketed from 15th (108.8) all the way up to seventh (97.1). Iowa's 79.5 mark is still the best in the Big Ten though.
• None of Michigan's statistical categories made a bigger leap than its third down defense. The Maize and Blue had ranked 27th nationally (32.2%) entering the contest, but after an 0-for-12 showing from the Spartans, leapt all the way to 11th (28.7%).
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