Jason Beck Acknowledges Michigan’s Offensive Struggles as Wolverines Search for Answers

Michigan’s offense has struggled to find its footing this season, and offensive coordinator Jason Beck isn’t pretending otherwise.

The Wolverines enter their bye-week aftermath with an offense ranked No. 98 nationally in rushing and No. 116 in passing, averaging just 23 points per game. From Bryce Underwood’s inconsistency at quarterback to an ineffective ground game and questions surrounding the offensive line, Michigan has failed to produce the results expected from a unit with its talent and being directed by someone with a track record like Beck.

The OC acknowledged Wednesday that the problems extend beyond one position or one area of the offense, even if he believes the Wolverines are capable of significantly more.

“Everything sucks. So maybe it’s the Rhino’s fault?” Beck said somewhat sarcastically when discussing criticism of Michigan’s Rhino package, which incorporates a heavier personnel grouping. He defended the package, calling it the offense’s most efficient and pointing out that Michigan has been more successful when it is on the field.

The comment offered a glimpse into the frustration surrounding an offense that has struggled to establish any consistent identity.

Beck emphasized that Michigan is evaluating its scheme and making adjustments rather than stubbornly sticking with an approach that hasn’t worked. He also pushed back against the idea that a lack of talent is responsible for the disappointing production.

The difference, in his view, comes down to execution.

Michigan’s struggles have been particularly apparent in the running game. Beck admitted he is disappointed with where the rushing attack stands and acknowledged that the Wolverines’ perimeter runs have not been effective. The staff has reviewed elements of last season’s rushing offense and considered incorporating more of those concepts, with a greater emphasis on running north and south.

The passing game needs to provide more help, too. Beck said Michigan is targeting nine explosive plays per game, with approximately six coming through the air. Without more chunk plays, opposing defenses can continue making life difficult for a rushing attack that has yet to consistently deliver.

Underwood remains a central part of the equation. Beck defended the quarterback’s ability to process reads, saying missed reads have not been an overwhelming issue and that Underwood provides a valuable element to the running game. However, he identified consistency as the biggest key for the young quarterback, who is also feeling the pressure of outside criticism.

Beck believes turnovers are one of the biggest issue holding Michigan back, with smaller mistakes throughout the offense also stalling drives. He doesn't think the unit is far away from improving, but the continued struggles have affected player buy-in.

There is no magic solution, Beck admitted. Communication, teaching and continued work are necessary, but success is ultimately what restores confidence.

For Michigan, that success cannot come soon enough. The talent might be there, as Beck insists, but until the Wolverines translate it into consistent execution, the offensive struggles will continue to define their season.