The Wolverines struggled to find their rhythm early, but Michigan exploded for 28 points in the third quarter behind an efficient performance from quarterback Bryce Underwood.
Michigan didn't exactly come out firing Saturday against UTEP, but the Wolverines eventually turned a slow start into a convincing 52-17 victory.
After trailing 7-0 early, Michigan settled in offensively and completely took control after halftime. The Wolverines scored 17 points in the second quarter to take a 17-14 lead into the break before blowing the game wide open with 28 points in the third quarter.
The result was a dominant second half that showcased just how much Michigan's offense can do when it gets rolling.
The biggest positive came from quarterback Bryce Underwood, who turned in another efficient performance. The sophomore completed 19 of 25 passes for 223 yards and two touchdowns while adding 22 yards on six carries.
Underwood wasn't asked to do anything spectacular through the air. Instead, he consistently made the right throws, completed 76% of his passes and helped Michigan stay on schedule throughout the afternoon.
His two touchdown passes went to Andrew Marsh and JJ Buchanan, with both receivers making significant contributions.
Marsh led Michigan with 105 receiving yards on 10 catches, while Buchanan added 92 yards and a touchdown on seven receptions. The duo account for nearly all of Underwood's passing production and gave the quarterback reliable options throughout the game.
Michigan also found a little bit of success on the ground.
Jordan Marshall left the game a little dinged up, which opened the door for freshman Savion Hiter. No. 5 led the Wolverines with 62 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 11 carries, while Marshall added 59 yards and a score on 12 attempts before checking out. As a team, Michigan rushed for 181 yards and averaged 4.6 yards per carry.
The defense was equally impressive once the game settled down. UTEP managed just 150 total yards, including only 93 passing yards and 57 rushing yards. Michigan also held the Miners to just 2 of 12 on third down.
Overall, Michigan finished with 431 total yards and 27 first downs compared to just nine first downs for UTEP.
The Wolverines did have a couple of areas to clean up, including two lost fumbles and four penalties for 44 yards. Still, the overwhelming story was Michigan's ability to overcome a sluggish opening and dominate the final 30 minutes.
After being held scoreless in the first quarter, Michigan responded with 52 points over the remainder of the game.
And with Underwood efficiently directing the offense, the Wolverines showed once again how dangerous they can become when everything starts clicking.
