The Michigan Wolverines opened Big Ten play against the USC Trojans. It’s already being called a classic after Michigan running back Kalel Mullings broke free in the fourth quarter and helped put Michigan in a great position to score the game-winning touchdown. Mullings got into the end zone with 37 seconds left, giving Michigan the 27-24 win.

Quarterback Alex Orji only threw for 32 yards, so the injury to Colston Loveland certainly played a role in the lack of passing success. Loveland’s injury also allowed true freshman Hogan Hansen to get on the field for extended playing time.

In the end, it was a close game with a lot on the line, and Michigan didn’t need to rely on true freshmen to win this one. Below is our updated true freshmen redshirt tracker. An asterisk (*) indicates they saw playing time against USC.

• RB Jordan Marshall (1 game)
• OL Andrew Sprague (1 game)
• TE Hogan Hansen (2 games)*
• LB Cole Sullivan (4 games)*
• EDGE Dominic Nichols (1 game)
• DL Manuel Beigel (1 game)

Last week’s game against Arkansas State was a breakout game for Hansen. He saw the field for the first time this season and picked up a touchdown. Unfortunately, he didn’t help get any sort of passing game going for the Wolverines. While he helped give Marlin Klein a rest, Hansen didn’t have any catches in this week’s game.

Depending on the seriousness of Loveland’s injury, Michigan is going to need a target to step up for Orji. Seven catches for 32 yards isn’t a good look and they’ll need to improve in order to take some pressure off Michigan’s run game. Next week against Minnesota is a great opportunity for a young guy like Hansen to show he can make an impact.

Linebacker Cole Sullivan continues to get playing time on special teams. He’s played in all four games, meaning he will burn his redshirt status if he gets in next weekend’s game. Given how he has played against top teams like USC and Texas, there is likely a strong chance we see him on the field next Saturday and beyond.

The Wolverines host the Minnesota Golden Gophers at noon on Saturday at the Big House.