Michigan football predictions: Wolverines expected to roll past UTEP before Iowa showdown
Michigan football enters Saturday's nonconference finale against UTEP as a heavy favorite, but the Wolverines' sluggish offense remains the biggest storyline as the team prepares for a brutal Big Ten schedule that opens with a trip to Iowa.
Four Detroit News columnists predict a comfortable Michigan victory at the Big House, with scores ranging from 34-7 to 42-7. The game kicks off at 3:30 p.m. ET on the Big Ten Network.
Michigan's defense leads the way
The Wolverines (2-0) have leaned heavily on a dominant defensive unit through the first two weeks. After holding Oklahoma to 10 points in a 17-10 road win, the defense has established itself as the team's identity.
Angelique S. Chengelis notes that Michigan's defense has carried the team and expects Saturday to be an opportunity to fix the offensive issues, particularly in the run game.
“Michigan's defense has carried the Wolverines through their first two games, and this game against UTEP should offer a chance to work on many aspects of the offense, namely the run game,” Chengelis wrote.
Offensive concerns ahead of Iowa matchup
Michigan has managed just four touchdowns in two games, with one coming on a controversial Hail Mary against Western Michigan. Quarterback Bryce Underwood has shown improvement as a runner but remains inconsistent as a passer.
John Niyo emphasized the need for offensive coordinator Jason Beck to open up the playbook before the Wolverines face tougher competition.
“This UTEP team got shut out, 51-0, by Oklahoma in the opener, so there's no excuse for anything less than a blowout from the Wolverines as they brace for the Big Ten season,” Niyo wrote.
Running backs need to get going
Both Chengelis and Bob Wojnowski highlighted the need for running backs Jordan Marshall and Savion Hiter to become more productive. The offensive line also needs improvement, and Saturday's game against a weaker opponent provides the perfect chance to build confidence.
Wojnowski pointed out that Michigan is favored by 35 points despite scoring only 30 points all season.
“They've won with a defense that looks fearsome with a healthy John Henry Daley,” Wojnowski wrote. “Bryce Underwood was markedly improved last week and led UM in rushing, but running backs Jordan Marshall and Savion Hiter have to be more productive, which means the offensive line has to keep growing.”
What to expect against UTEP
UTEP (1-1) was shut out 51-0 by Oklahoma in its opener, which suggests the Miners will struggle to move the ball against Michigan's defense. Connor Earegood expects the Wolverines to use this game to iron out offensive kinks.
“The Miners are minor, and Paydirt Pete might not reach paydirt very often,” Earegood wrote. “The only thing that prevents this from an embarrassment of UTEP is if Michigan uses this as classroom game for Big Ten play around the corner.”
Predictions at a glance
- Angelique S. Chengelis: Michigan 41-3
- Connor Earegood: Michigan 34-7
- John Niyo: Michigan 42-7
- Bob Wojnowski: Michigan 37-6
Iowa looms large for Michigan
The Wolverines open Big Ten play next week against Iowa, a matchup that will test Michigan's offensive progress. The Hawkeyes are known for their physical defense, and Michigan will need more than just defensive stops to win in Iowa City.
Wojnowski offered a blunt warning: “A tough Big Ten opener against Iowa looms, so the Wolverines are advised to handle the Miners with as little fuss as possible.”
This article originally appeared on The Detroit News: Predictions: Michigan football vs. UTEP