The game turned into a terrifying experience for the Michigan Wolverines. They fell 24-9 to the Ohio State Buckeyes on Saturday. Explosive running back Jordan Marshall left the contest early in the first quarter, aggravating a critical shoulder injury. This devastating loss cripples Michigan’s hopes for a Big Ten title and a College Football Playoff bid.
Jordan Marshall arrived ready for the season’s biggest game. He dismissed earlier concerns about a shoulder injury suffered against Northwestern. Marshall exploded onto the field. He showcased his elite speed with a massive 36-yard run on Michigan’s opening drive.
According to CBS Sports, Marshall dominated the Buckeyes’ defense early. He racked up 61 yards on just four carries. Marshall averaged a blistering 15 yards per attempt. He was the vital spark Michigan needed. He constantly pounded the ball for yards against a historically stingy Ohio State defense.
However, he suffered a severe injury. Marshall went down favoring his right arm late in the opening quarter. FOX’s broadcast crew confirmed he re-aggravated the pre-existing shoulder injury. They declared him “unlikely” to return to the matchup. His return was a massive blow, according to On3.
The Wolverines immediately turned to backup running back Bryson Kuzdzal. Kuzdzal seized the lead role. He fought hard and contributed to Michigan’s running game in the first half. Ultimately, the offense stalled without Marshall’s consistent explosiveness, leading to a frustrating 24-9 defeat at home.
The moment Marshall left the field, the atmosphere shifted. Michigan Stadium went from electric to deeply concerned. Fans and analysts immediately recognized the severity of the loss.
“This is brutal. You absolutely hate to see it happen in a game this big with so much on the line,” many fans echoed across social media. They expressed deep frustration. The Maize and Blue faithful found the sight of Jordan Marshall on the sideline painful. He wore his helmet but was unable to contribute. Coach Sherrone Moore and the entire team felt the impact. They knew their lead back gave everything to play.
The focus immediately shifts to Marshall’s recovery. It also focuses on the future of the Michigan offense. Medical tests are mandatory to determine the exact extent of the aggravated shoulder injury. These tests include X-rays or an MRI, according to the Detroit News.
This loss makes Michigan’s path to the Big Ten Championship game much more complex. A run at the College Football Playoff is likely over. The rest of the running back room must immediately step up. Bryson Kuzdzal will shoulder the load. The team prepares for the bowl season, and Marshall faces an uncertain timetable for his return.
