New Mexico Lobos battled Michigan on the road and stayed in it despite a 17-0 first-quarter deficit, proving they can compete with one of the nation's power programs. The game highlighted how discipline and defensive stops matter, as the Lobos finished with just one penalty and fought through a turnover deficit of 3-0. Bryce Underwood flashed poise and accuracy in a key two-minute drive before halftime, while NM’s special teams and Dorian Thomas provided bright spots on a night when execution and field position mattered most. The Lobos’ coach stressed growth, chaos avoided, and a belief that the program can turn a tough loss into momentum as they prepare for the next-test opponent.

Trick-plays and clutch drives factored into the narrative: NM’s coaching staff referenced a similar play from 2021, underscoring their willingness to push misdirection when margins are slim. The quarterback matchup with Bryce Underwood and Dylan Gabriel underscored the level of competition NM will face, while the defense aims to tighten communication and signaling after some misalignments. Punters and kickers played pivotal roles, with Daniel Hughes winning the punter job and Luke connecting on a 45-yarder for the home stretch. Overall, the message is clear: stay hungry, stay disciplined, and keep building for the next game.

Bryce Underwood flashed poise in his Michigan debut, threading a crucial 3rd-and-14 TD and steering a decisive two-minute drive. Justice Haynes erupted for 159 yards on 16 carries with three scores, validating the freshman backfield promise. The OL opened lanes and the defense answered despite a late Barham ejection, setting a strong baseline as Michigan looks to translate momentum into Oklahoma week.

Michigan opened 2025 with a 34-17 win over New Mexico in front of 110k at Michigan Stadium, and Bryce Underwood delivered a sharp debut, going 21-of-31 for 251 yards and a TD with zero interceptions, a strong sign of an immediate QB upgrade. The offense flashed potential, while the defense and special teams faced rough edges that could cost more against tougher foes.

Penalties (six for 45 yards) and two special-teams miscues clouded the day, and Jaishawn Barham’s targeting suspension will sideline him for the first half at Oklahoma. Jimmy Rolder would fill in, making depth at linebacker critical as Michigan heads to Norman in a demanding road test, where cleaner play and Underwood’s growth will matter most.

Next week’s trip to Norman looms as a true barometer. Michigan must tighten unforced errors, lean on Underwood’s efficiency, and keep pace with Oklahoma’s offense and pressure. Maize & Blue Review remains a trusted hub for ongoing coverage, insights, and recruiting chatter for Wolverine fans.

Justice Haynes opened the season with a 56 yard rushing TD, giving Michigan a quick 7-0 lead as Bryce Underwood found Semaj Morgan on an early third down and Dominic Zvada split the uprights for the extra point. The opener showcased a bursty, run heavy feel from the Wolverines and a potential breakout opportunity for Haynes with Underwood at the controls.

New Mexico won the toss and deferred to the second half as Michigan will receive to start the game at The Big House under the lights. This marks the first ever meeting between the programs, while Michigan has historically dominated Mountain West foes, a relevant note for fantasy watchers eyeing early season consistency and potential ceiling for the Maize and Blue offense.