NFL
By: Joe Cardoso
The Wolverines are back home and host the Wisconsin Badgers in another Big 10 clash. For Michigan, a bye week and wanting to build off of Blair Underwood’s performance at Nebarska. Maryland was able to go into Madison and grab a W, so you know the Badgers want to shake that loss off and get back on track for their season.
Michigan can’t let the fact that they are a two-touchdown favorite blind them; sleep on this Wisconsin team, and it could be a long Saturday for the Wolverines. Justice Haynes is on fire, and the Wolverine running game is nasty. This is where we find out that the Badgers being ranked number one versus the run means nothing. Sprinkle in Jordan Marshall and Bryce Underwood, and that is a whole lot of talented folks carrying the rock. Haynes already has 3 touchdowns over 50 yards and is averaging over 100 yards a game. For the defense, this is the type of game you love because one of the issues with Wisconsin is that they turn the ball over a lot. Danny O’Neil has thrown an interception every game so far, and that trend WILL continue. This Michigan secondary is talented and has shown improvement game in and game out. Look for that to continue.
For super freshman Bryce Underwood, is this his breakout game with the pass game? He is facing a defense that struggles versus the pass, giving up at least 235 yards per game. A revamped Wolverine WR room will look to eat and showcase what they can do. The Badgers have holes up and down the offensive line and are still throwing stuff at the wall to see what will stick. The Michigan defense will have chances to apply pressure and make them feel uncomfortable every snap. With four of the next 6 games on the road, this is an important game to say the least.
While this Wolverine team is far from perfect, Wisconsin has a lot of holes and a head coach who is trying hard to keep his head above water. I see this as another opportunity for Bryce to get comfortable in the offense and pocket, working on the passing game. Lean on the run to soften up the Badgers and open up other parts. On the other side of the ball, we should have our ears pinned back and go hunting for turnovers and sacks. The meat of the schedule is coming, and we need the reps to prepare for what is to come. I see an easy home win.
Michigan 31
Wisconsin 20
#GoBlue
