In a decisive game, Michigan's defensive strategy effectively contained Michael Penix, a key player for the opposition. Michigan's game plan focused on a ground-based offensive, accumulating 84 yards through just two passes and taking almost five minutes off the clock. Penix, known for his passing abilities, was pressured by Michigan's defense, leading to missed opportunities and unforced errors. Notably, Penix failed to connect with receiver Rome Odunze on crucial plays, including a 4th and 7 situation that could have changed the momentum of the game. Michigan's defense, which has allowed the fewest pass touchdowns in the nation, forced Penix into three straight incomplete passes in a critical stand and was credited with speeding up his clock throughout the night. Despite Penix's performance not being as sharp as in the Sugar Bowl, Michigan's consistent pressure and strategic play led them to maintain a 20-13 lead into the final quarter and ultimately secure the national championship title with Penix missing on the two most important throws of the game.
Feel for Penix ending his college career banged up and with one of his worst performances. But Michigan defense is the story tonight. Took away one of most elite passers you'll see at this level. #NationalChampionship
Tough way to have a 5-0 run end in college football. Penix wasn't as sharp as he had to be tonight. His great receiving corps was also not what it has been all season. Michigan played from ahead all night like it needed to. Congratulations, Wolverines.
If Penix played an average game tonight this would’ve been a different game. Credit to Michigan for rattling him.
One of the worst games of the year for Penix. Michigan far superior and deserving national champ. They sped his clock up all night but he wasn’t close to his best self.
Three quarters down and Michigan holding that 20-13 lead. Penix has missed three open passes for big yardage and/or touchdowns. Has not been near as sharp as he was in the Sugar Bowl.
Good stand there for Michigan, which forces Michael Penix into three straight incomplete passes.
Penix has missed on the two most important throws of the game so far. 4th and 7 wide open Odunze 3rd and goal, touch high/outside Can’t beat Michigan with unforced errors.
For Penix, that’s a horrible throw. Michigan pressure in his head.
WOW. Penix had Odunze for six and missed it on 4th and 7. That could've made this a ballgame. Instead, Michigan ball at midfield.
That is an absolute break for Michigan. Rome Odunze was naked. Penix's throw turned him around and turns it over. Some confusion in the Michigan secondary it seemed.
WOW. Penix had Odunze for six and he dropped it on 4th and 7. That could've made this a ballgame. Instead, Michigan ball at midfield.
Michael Penix struggling a bit against these Michigan DBs. WRs aren't getting the separation this offense needs. Penix will need some tight window throws to win.
Looked like Penix might have had Odunze there and overthrew him. Michigan has allowed the fewest pass TD (7) in the nation ... but still feels like you want to give Penix more than one chance there with goal to go.
Michigan has 84 yards while throwing two passes and taking almost 5 minutes off the clock. You'd think that's going to be the entire game plan, keep it one the ground and keep Penix off the field.