20 Facts About Fresno State Vs Michigan

Fresno State vs. Michigan: A Historic Matchup

The game between Fresno State and Michigan on August 31, 2024, was a significant event in college football. Held at Michigan Stadium, this game brought together two teams with rich histories and passionate fan bases.

1. The Largest Stadium in the Country
   Michigan Stadium, known as the Big House, is the largest stadium in the United States and the Western Hemisphere. It can hold over 115,000 fans, creating an electrifying atmosphere for any game.

2. Historic Setting
   Inside Schembechler Hall, Michigan's football history is celebrated with 1,004 footballs, each representing a win in the school's storied past. This backdrop added to the game's significance.

First-Ever Meeting and Michigan's Dominance

This game marked the first time Fresno State and Michigan faced off, making it a historic occasion for both programs.

3. First Meeting Between Teams
   The 2024 season opener was the inaugural matchup between Michigan and Fresno State, adding a fresh chapter to college football rivalries.

4. Michigan’s Dominant Win
   Michigan secured a decisive 30-10 victory, marking their first win of the season under new head coach Sherrone Moore. This win extended their home winning streak to 23 games.

Record-Breaking Attendance and Honorary Captains

The game drew a massive crowd and featured special guests who added to the event's prestige.

5. Attendance Record
   The game attracted 110,665 fans, marking the 316th consecutive crowd of over 100,000 at Michigan Stadium. This turnout highlights the Big House's enduring popularity.

6. Honorary Captains
   Jack and Jackie Harbaugh, parents of former head coach Jim Harbaugh, served as honorary captains. Their presence honored their contributions to Michigan football.

New Leadership and Consistent Performance

Under new leadership, Michigan continued to demonstrate their dominance in college football.

7. New Head Coach Sherrone Moore
   Sherrone Moore, the new head coach, picked up his second win. He had previously served as acting head coach in four games in 2023, including a victory against Bowling Green.

8. Regular Season Wins Record
   Michigan now holds 29 straight regular season wins, the most by any Big Ten team in conference history. This streak dates back to 2021.

Home Opener Success and New Player Debuts

Michigan's strong performance in home openers continued, with several new players making their debut.

9. Home Opener Wins
   Michigan boasts a 101-15-2 record in home openers. They have won 11 consecutive night games, including a perfect 6-0 mark in 2023.

10. New Players Making Their Debut
    Eight players made their first career starts, including quarterback Davis Warren and defensive back Zeke Berry. Their performances were crucial to Michigan's victory.

Impressive Field Goals and Defensive Plays

Key moments in the game included long field goals and crucial defensive plays.

11. Field Goals by Zvada
    Graduate kicker Dominic Zvada made field goals of 53 and 55 yards, with the 55-yarder being the sixth-longest in Michigan's history.

12. Interceptions by Wolverines
    Junior defensive back Zeke Berry recorded Michigan’s first interception of the season, leading to a touchdown. Will Johnson also had an 86-yard interception return for a touchdown.

Defensive Dominance and Sacks

Michigan's defense played a pivotal role in their victory, limiting Fresno State's offensive opportunities.

13. Defensive Dominance
    Fresno State was held to 2-of-11 on third down and only nine rushing yards. Michigan's defense did not allow a 100-yard rusher throughout the 2023 season.

14. Sacks by Wolverines
    Senior defensive lineman Rayshaun Benny recorded a sack, while Makari Paige and Josaiah Stewart led the team with five tackles each. Stewart also had three tackles for loss and two sacks.

Michigan’s Offense and Fresno State’s Struggles

Despite some offensive challenges, Michigan managed to control the game, while Fresno State struggled against a strong defense.

15. Michigan’s Offense
    The Michigan offense settled for long field goals to maintain control of the game, taking a 16-3 lead with 12:42 left on the clock.

16. Fresno State’s Performance
    Fresno State, led by quarterback Mikey Keene, struggled against Michigan's defense, managing only three points in the first half and converting just 2-of-11 third downs.

Fresno State’s Legacy and Fan Dedication

Fresno State's fans and players brought their spirit and determination to the game, reflecting the team's legacy.

17. Pat Hill’s Legacy
    Fresno State fans, known as the Red Wave, are inspired by Pat Hill's mantra of 'Anytime, anywhere, any place!' This spirit was evident in their support during the game.

18. Superfans and Family Traditions
    Superfan James Lundberg brought his eleven-week-old daughter, Avery, to her first game at Michigan Stadium, showcasing the dedication of Fresno State's fan base.

Local Expectations and Future Rivalries

Despite being underdogs, Fresno State's players remained confident, setting the stage for future encounters between the teams.

19. Local Expectations
    Senior offensive lineman Moses Vavao and senior DB Camryn Bracha expressed respect for Michigan but were determined to put up a fight, reflecting the Bulldogs' grit.

20. Future Rivalries
    This matchup marks the beginning of a new rivalry. Both teams have rich histories, and future games promise to be exciting and competitive.

The Start of a New Rivalry

The Fresno State vs. Michigan game on August 31, 2024, was more than just a football match. It was a clash of traditions, histories, and fanbases. Michigan's dominant 30-10 victory at the Big House, the largest stadium in the country, showcased their strength and consistency. With new head coach Sherrone Moore at the helm, the Wolverines extended their home winning streak to 23 games. Fresno State, despite the loss, demonstrated resilience and determination, embodying the spirit of their "Anytime, anywhere, any place!" mantra. The game featured standout performances, including impressive field goals by Dominic Zvada and key interceptions by Zeke Berry and Will Johnson. As both teams look ahead, this inaugural matchup sets the stage for future encounters. The rivalry between Fresno State and Michigan is just beginning, promising more thrilling games and memorable moments for fans on both sides.