offense
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Michigan football vs. UTEP: Live thread and updates from the Big House
- UTEP's rebuilt 2026 offense returns no starters, and the preview singles out offensive-line pass protection as a problem against Oklahoma. EJ Colson finished that opener with more rushing attempts than passes, although the Miners still reached deep into Oklahoma territory three times.
- UTEP kicker Carlos Arreola missed all three field-goal attempts against Oklahoma. The preview identifies failed scoring chances in that opener, but does not report a kicking competition, replacement or injury before Michigan.
- The preview describes UTEP's defense as an undersized 3-3-5 stack with four returning starters, including linebacker Jayden Wilson. It expects linebacker pressure to create negative plays and put Michigan in passing downs; this is the article's matchup expectation, not a newly announced package.
- The Michigan-UTEP preview cites a pregame forecast for rain, with heavy precipitation possible in Ann Arbor. It presents bad weather as a potential factor in the matchup, not confirmed game-time conditions or a stated change to either offense's plan.
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UTEP knows it has its hands full with Michigan's defense: 'They're the real deal'
- UTEP returns no offensive starters, and its Oklahoma opener included a punt-return touchdown allowed and a missed field goal during an early 21-0 deficit. Walden points to Western Michigan's cleaner performance against Michigan as a model and wants UTEP ready from the start; no specific lineup or special-teams replacement was announced.
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What UTEP coach Scotty Walden said about Michigan, Bryce Underwood, 'dream come true' to play in The Big House
- Walden said UTEP failed to establish an early passing rhythm in its prior Power Four test. Against Michigan, he wants the staff to manufacture open receivers and get quarterback E.J. into an on-time passing rhythm to restore offensive balance; he did not announce a quarterback change.
- UTEP's defensive priority is to stop Michigan's run game before attacking predictable passing situations with disguises and movement. Walden stressed that this is difficult against Michigan's backs and heavy personnel, and that Bryce Underwood's size and strength require gang tackling. This is a stated plan, not evidence UTEP can consistently execute it.
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- QB: Quarterback EJ Colson dialing it in through week 2 #PicksUp | #WinTheWest
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