Washington jumped out to an early 14-0 lead against the No. 10 Michigan Wolverines, and that proved to be a hole too far for the team to climb out of, despite the best efforts of some of the team’s playmakers. The Wolverines were shut out after two quarters of the game and ended the game as they started.

While there seemed to be a spark when Jack Tuttle came in at quarterback, that all changed pretty quickly in the second half, and the team completely fell apart after he turned the ball over twice. And while the defense was already struggling before the offense stalled, it found itself in some tough situations and couldn’t stop Washington’s high-powered offense.

Here are our winners and losers as we reflect on a tough loss for the Wolverines.

Winner: Defense Line

As expected, the defense put in some great performances. Josaiah Stewart, Mason Graham, Kenneth Grant and TJ Guy all had big plays. Graham only had half a sack, but did block a field goal. Guy came on in place of Derrick Moore and picked up 1.5 sacks, and Stewart, back from injury, also picked up a sack. This group was the shining light in the defense throughout the match.

Loser: Secondary

There have been some signs of improvement in the secondary in recent weeks, but on the road against Washington the unit seemed absolutely lost. The Wolverines had Will Rogers complete 21 of 31 passes for 271 yards and two touchdowns. Wide receiver Denzel Boston averaged 16 yards per catch, while Giles Jackson averaged 19.5 yards on his four catches.

It wasn’t just one guy in high school either. Jyaire Hill had several situations where he lost his balance and had to give up a big play. Will Johnson was hit with a late pass interference call that allowed Washington to increase its lead. Brandyn Hillman was also flagged on the same play for a late hit on the passer. Zeke Berry tried to play the ball and smelled a tackle. Makari Paige gave up a huge play that gave the Huskies an early score.

According to Pro Football Focus, Michigan’s lowest-ranked players were all in the secondary: Berry, Hill, Johnson, Hillman and Wesley Walker.

Winner: Donovan Edwards

Edwards had a huge play when he ran for a 39-yard touchdown late in the second quarter, once again showing what he can do on a big play when you get him in space. Michigan has players who can help spark the offense, and Edwards reminded the fan base that he can get into the end zone on any play. He led Michigan in rushing yards with 95, averaging 6.8 yards per carry. He also caught two passes for 23 yards.

Loser: Personnel decisions

How do you manage a roster when one of your stars – Edwards – is finally doing what you’d like to see, but the starter – Mullings – has been your workhorse for the past few games? At the end of the day, Edwards and Mullings each carried the ball fourteen times, and the designed plays with Mullings and Edwards looked uninspired.

Along with the running back situation and the obvious quarterback carousel, they haven’t given anyone else a shot at right tackle despite some major growing pains from Evan Link. He had a pass blocking grade of 51.2 and a run blocking grade of 61.0, and it felt a lot worse watching him play yesterday. It’s hard to understand why they don’t approach this in the same way as some other positions.

Loser: Jack Tuttle’s turnover

It’s hard to judge Tuttle’s performance because he clearly gave the team the boost it needed in the second and third quarters, but the turnovers can’t happen. Tuttle was 10 of 18 for 98 yards, one touchdown, one interception and one fumble. He’s a veteran who maybe tried to do too much and didn’t protect the ball, and that cost the Wolverines the game.

While Tuttle had his ups and downs, it feels like the team can do more with him at quarterback. He helped lead Michigan down the field and put points on the board multiple times. He stepped out of the pocket, kept his eyes on the field and even picked up yards with his feet when no one was open. However, if he wants to remain Michigan’s starter, the turnovers simply can’t happen.

Winner: Ernest Hausmann

Ernest Hausmann came up big with an interception and helped get Michigan’s offense back on the field. He also recorded a team-high 12 tackles, including eight solo tackles. He gave the Wolverines another chance to win on Saturday night, and he seems to be finding a groove week after week.