Sydney McKinney-Williams, Staff Writer
U of M’s team ran out to the field preparing for the beginning of their matchup. Photo//Nic Antaya/Getty Images
The Michigan Wolverines started off their season nicely with a big win over East Carolina, putting up 30 points, while holding ECU to just a field goal.
The team was without their head coach Jim Harbaugh, as he was serving his first game of a three-game suspension. However, this did not stop the Wolverines from dominating against East Carolina on all fronts. Defensive coordinator Jesse Minter stepped in as acting head coach today, giving him a 1-0 start to his collegiate head coaching record.
This win also adds to the team’s 16-game home-win streak that began in the 2021 season – Coach Harbaugh’s longest win streak as head coach.
Michigan drew first blood on the scoreboard, as quarterback J.J. McCarthy completed a 14-yard pass to wide receiver Roman Wilson. This put Michigan up 7-0.
Heading into the second quarter, the Wolverines put together three scoring drives to extend their lead 23-0. Blake Corum kicked off his 2023 campaign with a two-yard run to the end zone. Later, McCarthy found Wilson again for their second TD connection of the contest. Lastly, James Turner ended the quarter by putting up a field goal, as the team went into halftime leading 23-0.
In the third quarter, McCarthy connected to Wilson once again for a 15-yard touchdown. At this point, the game was sealed with the Wolverines up 30-0.
Within the final moments of the game, East Carolina was able to put points on the board to avoid the shutout, as kicker Andrew Conrad connected on a 55-yard field goal.
The Wolverines were able to secure their first win against East Carolina in program history, as this was the first time that these two teams met in a matchup. Eight players had a collegiate start today between offense and defense, and 20 players in total made their debut as Michigan Wolverines.
McCarthy had a great game, going 26-30 for 280 yards and three touchdowns.
Many people were in attendance to see this dominant performance as well, as the Big House filled up with a crowd well over 100,000 people.
The Wolverines have great momentum heading into their next game on Sep. 9, facing off against UNLV in another home matchup.
Check out the schedule for the rest of the season here.
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