2012 Week 8

Illinois, who has scored the fewest points per game in the country with 9.2 PPG was all over Michigan's defense today. They got big play after big play in the 1st half which led to them rushing for 106 yards and passing for 234. Their defense was also very tough in the first half as they sacked Forcier 5 times in the half. In the end, however, Michigan was simply too big, too strong, and too fast for Illinois.

Forcier, who is having INT problems this year, threw his 9th TD pass of the season along with his 8th INT @ the goal line. Michigan's only forced turnover, a beautiful INT by OLB Brandin Hawthorne, was called back because of a roughing the passer penalty. Michigan was sloppy all day as they were called for 3 roughing penalties. Offensively, HB Vincent Smith carried the Wolverines to victory. Smith had career highs with 22 carries and 4 TDs and rushed for over 100 yards for only the 4th time in his career. Forcier's favorite targets in the passing game were SR Je'Ron Stokes and FR Greg Banks as they both caught 4 balls for 85+ yards.

Next up for Michigan is Purdue as they continue on their quest to win the Big Ten title and get a trip to the Rose Bowl.