Every week (I hope) I will add a post in about my Michigan Wolverines. I try to keep a non-bias opinion here, but that’s not possible. So whether you like us or not, you’ll find it here every Thursday, along with notes from other games on the slate for the weekend.
Last week the Utah Utes defeated the Wolverines at the Big House, leaving fans doubting about how this season will go. This week, we are back at Michigan Stadium to take on the Miami RedHawks.
In years past we most likely would have treated this as a blow off game, because, well, it’s the MAC. This year is obviously different, a new coach and new offense so we have to take this game seriously.
Miami lost to Vanderbilt 34-13 last week in their opener. Vanderbilt quarterback Chris Nickson was the star of the game, running all over the Miami defense for 166 yards on 20 carries with two touchdowns.
This is why Michigan needs to utilize the running game more than they did last week against Utah. Brandon Minor and Sam McGuffie will be vital in this game. Kevin Grady will be back to help out the offense too. Versus Utah, 36 total yards were gained on 25 carries. Minor and McGuffie combined for 29 yards on 12 carries, and if they saw or learned anything from Nickson's domination, it means we need to take advantage of the Miami defense and run the ball well. Since relying on either Nick Sheridan or Steven Threet’s running ability isn’t an option, as shown last week, the running game and in particular Minor, will be huge in this game.
Rich Rodriguez hasn’t announced the starting QB for the game, but if he is judging off last week’s play, Threet will and should be the starter. He made a lot less mistakes than Sheridan who started the game, and brought us to within two points of tying the game. Wide receiver Greg Matthews is questionable for the game, so if he is out that would put a lot riding on young guys Junior Hemingway and Darryl Stonum.
Aside from the offensive struggles, the defense was equally as bad in the first half. At halftime thought something must have sparked into their heads as it was great in the second half, holding the Utes to three points. The defense will have to take advantage of any mistakes that QB Daniel Raudabaugh makes.
Now, I know I am making this game sound like Miami is USC. I do expect Michigan to win this game by two or three touchdowns, but it will be no walk in the park. As long as the Wolverines do what they need to do, and utilize the running game effectively, they should win.
Michigan – 24
Miami - 10
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