Michigan had a bad season under first year coach Rich Rodriguez, losing to Ohio State for the 5th year in a row. On top of that they also lost to Toledo and Miami (Ohio) at home in the Big House.

Michigan needs to get things turned around quickly to get back in the bowl hunt.

Michigan answered some of it's critics Saturday with a 31-7 win over Western Michigan.

With all the distractions hanging over the Michigan program over NCAA violations, Rich Rodriguez led the Wolverines to an opening day victory.

Starting freshman QB Tate Forcier threw three TDs and Denard Robinson ran for one of his own TD before halftime.

Forcier is the first freshman QB for Michigan to start an opening season game in over 30 years. He completed 13-of-20 passes for 179 yards. Forcier's first drive ended with a 28-yard TD pass to Junior Hemingway. After being replaced late in the first quarter Forcier came back in the second quarter and connected with Kevin Koger for a 7 yard TD in the second quarter.

Robinson finished the game with 74 yards rushing and completing 2 of 4 passes for 18 yards. Robinson scored on a 43-yard TD run.

Hemingway had five receptions for 103 yards and two TDs on the game and Koger had 3 receptions and a TD.

Western Michigan did not score until the fourth quarter when QB Tim Hiller passed to Juan Nunez down the middle for 73 yard TD.

With the win out of the way, Michigan has a big game with #23 Notre Dame next week who also blew out their opening day opponent 35-0.

Michigan Opens With A Big Win With Strong Play From Freshman QB's