Michigan leaned heavily on sophomore running back Jordan Marshall during its narrow 24–22 victory over Northwestern, and he delivered a standout performance. Marshall rushed for 142 yards and scored two touchdowns, keeping the Wolverines in control for most of the game. However, his night took a worrying turn when he injured his right shoulder in the fourth quarter.
Head coach Sherrone Moore later confirmed that X-rays came back negative and said Marshall “should play against Maryland next week.”
How Jordan Marshall Was Injured
Marshall dominated throughout the first three quarters, finding gaps, breaking tackles, and carrying Michigan’s offense. Early in the fourth quarter, he broke loose for a 24-yard run, one of his biggest plays of the night.
But the run ended painfully. A defender tackled him hard, causing Marshall to land awkwardly on his right shoulder. He remained on the ground visibly in pain before walking off the field with trainers. Even from the sideline, it was clear he was uncomfortable.
Michigan’s RB Room Already Thin
Michigan was already stretched thin at running back. Junior RB Justice Haynes had been ruled out for the rest of the season due to a foot injury, leaving Marshall as the team’s primary ball-carrier. His sudden exit put even more pressure on an already depleted group.
Backup running back Bryson Kuzdzal stepped in after the injury. While he managed 3 carries for 17 yards, the offense stalled. Michigan struggled to move the ball consistently and threw its fourth interception of the night, giving Northwestern a chance to fight back.
Who Took Over Once Marshall Left the Game?
Kuzdzal tried to stabilize the offense, but the rhythm had shifted. With Marshall watching from the sideline without his helmet and still dealing with shoulder pain, Michigan couldn’t regain momentum. Despite controlling much of the game, the Wolverines were forced into a tight finish as Northwestern capitalized on Michigan’s offensive struggles.
Heading Into Maryland Week With Caution
The team entered the Northwestern matchup fresh off a bye week, hoping to get healthier. Instead, injuries continued to pile up. Fortunately for Michigan, early signs are positive. With negative X-rays and encouraging comments from Coach Moore, Jordan Marshall is trending toward being available for the Maryland matchup — a game Michigan cannot afford to take lightly.
