Analysis and Grades for the 2013 Buffalo Wild Wings Bowl

Final: Kansas State 31, Michigan 14

Tough loss to end what was an up-and-down season for Michigan. It looked promising with a 5-0 start, but it couldn't win the close games in Big Ten play. However, we do know that Michigan can be much better next season, with another spring and summer of experience and improved team chemistry.

Michigan played a competitive game, but Kansas State happened to be the better team on this night. Michigan had opportunities to score touchdowns, but couldn't finish and had to settle for field goals.
This proved to be huge in this game. Also huge was the inability to cover Tyler Lockett.

Without further ado, here are my grades for tonight's game:

Michigan
Offense: C

First half play-calling was actually pretty good, but they just weren't able to put the ball in the end zone until the last minute of the game. Shane Morris did show promise with a 40-yard run to setup the lone touchdown for Michigan.

Defense: C-

Again, the defense couldn't prevent big plays and allowed three touchdowns to Tyler Lockett. Kansas State was able to run the football and control the line of scrimmage. Also there was a lack of discipline, especially on the offside penalties, one on Jibreel Black on the first play of the game and Frank Clark in the 4th quarter.

Special teams: C

The inability to prevent big plays happened on special teams as well, as there were three returns of over 35 yards in the game. Kansas State punted only one time, but Michigan did force a missed field goal in the game.

Coaching: C+

I didn't like the play-calling in the second half anywhere as much as the first half, as the first half play calling was really good, with Morris being able to move the ball down the field. I didn't see many adjustments made after halftime. The team could have been more competitive and more fired up and passionate about playing in the game, but I liked the way the last offensive drive went, as they finished it with a touchdown.

Kansas State:
Offense: A-
The offense was balanced and was able to keep the Michigan defense off-balance. Jake Waters found Tyler Lockett for 3 touchdowns, which proved to be huge. Michigan did force two fumbles though, and recovered one of them. Many big plays on offense, especially the third-down conversions to keep the Michigan defense on the field.

Defense: A-
The defense showed a bend-but-don't-break mentality, holding Michigan to field goals on its first two red-zone trips. They also had an interception (but could have had more) as well as a forced fumble, although not recovered.

Special Teams: B
Kansas State limited big plays almost the entire night, and Michigan didn't have much success on returns other than the first kickoff return of the game.

Coaching: B+
Again, the Kansas State defense kept Michigan's offense in check, and was able to expose Michigan's defense. Congratulations to all of KSU on a bowl win and an 8-win season.

Just a tough way to end what was a tough 2013 season. I am certain Michigan will be better next season, but we will see how things play out.