ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Michigan Wolverines defensive tackle Rayshaun Benny shared his thoughts on the team’s response following the USC game and their recent performances, including retaining the Paul Bunyan Trophy after defeating the Michigan State Spartans.
Benny said the team was bothered by their performance against USC.
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“We really emphasized putting it on us more to make sure we could try the line of scrimmage,” said Benny, noting that has been a key goal in the last two weeks.
Derrick Moore
Benny praised teammate Derrick Moore‘s progress this season.
“Last year, he was very close to getting it a lot, but it never really popped for him. I’m glad everything is coming full circle this year for him,” Benny said.
Returning to the field
Benny, who returned from injury for the Michigan State game, called it very important to be back on the field.
“I put a lot into this week, trying to make it out there. I’m glad we got the win, so it was all worth it,” Benny said.
Michigan State
Benny, a former Michigan State commit, said the rivalry still comes up mostly around game time.
“It used to get brought up a lot more when I was younger, but now it’s just that time of year,” Benny said.
Confidence
Benny expressed confidence in the defense’s unity.
“We’re playing together right now. That’s the ultimate goal — to keep playing together because if we do, anything is possible,” Benny said.
Benny highlighted the biggest change since the USC game as the team’s togetherness and willingness to take coaching well.
“Everybody’s working together to figure out the best plan for the week,” Benny said.
Max Bredeson
Benny was asked about facing Max Bredeson in practice.
“We never actually ran into each other. I play big, so we don’t line up against each other a lot.”
Benny added, “It’s fun watching him in the game. I know he brings energy and tries to kill when he’s out there. Max’s a dog. I got a lot of respect for him.”
Benny, being an in-state player, said controlling the rivalry means a lot.
“When we lost my freshman year, that was the worst year ever because that’s all I heard the whole year. It’s very important for us to get that win every year,” Benny said. “Keep Paul home.”
Offensive line
Benny spoke about the offensive line’s growth.
“They’re growing well. The group is starting to mesh and get comfortable playing with each other despite some injuries,” Benny said.
Avoiding a losing streak
Benny also reflected on avoiding a losing streak after the USC loss, which happened last season.
“We know all our goals are still in front of us. We believe in the team and the work we put in during the offseason,” Benny said.
CFP Rankings
Benny said he doesn’t focus much on rankings.
“I might look at who’s winning games, but I don’t really look at who’s first or second. We know if we do our job, we’ll play our way in,” Benny said.
Jyaire Hill
Benny praised Jyaire Hill‘s growth as a player and leader.
“He matured a lot this offseason. I’m happy to see him putting on a show,” Benny said.
Control emotion
Benny also emphasized playing with controlled emotion.
“We knew the task ahead and the history with the opponent. We kept each other under control to avoid the game getting heated.”
Benny shared a moment of discipline.
“My fingers got stepped on purposely, but it’s all good,” Benny said.
Jimmy Rolder
Benny praised Jimmy Rolder’s performance.
“He worked hard in practice and showed up. Any game could be his moment, and he cemented what he can do,” Benny said.
Chase Herbstreit
On scout team preparation, Benny said Chase Herbstreit has been giving them looks.
“He’s a better athlete than you would think,” Benny said.