COLLEGE FOOTBALL : Wolverines’ Defense Dominates in Victory Over Boston College

Michigan’s defense was strong from the start and its offense came alive late in the first half as the 11th-ranked Wolverines improved to 4-0 with a 23-13 victory Saturday night over Boston College.

Tshimanga Biakabutuka rushed 32 times for 117 yards and a touchdown and the defense had four interceptions as Michigan continued its best start since going 9-0 in 1986.

“It’s been a turnaround at Michigan. We haven’t had a great defense in a while,” said defensive tackle Jason Horn, who had three of his team’s five sacks. “We know if we can hang in there our offense will come around.”

Boston College starter Mark Hartsell had a tough night, completing eight of 20 passes for 74 yards and three interceptions. His backup, Matt Hasselbeck, led the Eagles (1-2) to a late score with a five-yard pass to Todd Pollack to cut Michigan’s lead to 23-13 with 4:11 left.

The Eagles faced their third consecutive ranked teams and have been outscored, 61-19, in losses to Big Ten opponents. Boston College lost its opener, 38-6, to Ohio State.