Michigan Football Preview: 4 Wolverines to Watch Ahead of Iowa Showdown
As the Michigan Wolverines prepare to host UTEP this Saturday, all eyes in Iowa City are already looking ahead to next week's Big Ten opener at the Big House. With a 2-0 record, Michigan is using this game as a final tune-up, and Hawkeye fans should pay close attention to which Wolverines step up before the conference clash.
Why this game matters for Iowa fans
Iowa travels to Ann Arbor next Saturday for what promises to be a physical Big Ten battle. Michigan's performance against UTEP will offer the first real glimpse of the team Iowa will face. The Wolverines have struggled to find consistency on offense through two games, and head coach Kyle Whittingham has been vocal about wanting more from his playmakers.
Running back Jordan Marshall needs to find his groove
Jordan Marshall rushed for nearly 1,000 yards last season but has managed just 76 yards on 22 carries so far. The third-year back scored the game-winning touchdown against Oklahoma last weekend, yet he has struggled to find running lanes behind an offensive line that has had its share of issues.
Whittingham has challenged his running backs to run harder and with more physicality. With rain in the forecast, Michigan may lean heavily on the ground game, giving Marshall a prime opportunity to break out before facing Iowa's stout defense.
Wide receiver Andrew Marsh needs to get involved
After a promising freshman season, Andrew Marsh has just five catches for 28 yards through two games. Even more concerning, he trails running back Savion Hiter in receiving yards. Quarterback Bryce Underwood looked improved against Oklahoma, but Michigan took the air out of the ball in the second half.
Even in rainy conditions, Michigan will need to throw the ball at some point. When Underwood drops back, he must look Marsh's way to get the passing attack going before conference play begins.
Edge rusher Carter Meadows could return with a splash
Carter Meadows, a five-star recruit, has missed the first two games with an injury. All signs point to the edge rusher making his debut Saturday. While he won't start, Meadows should see rotation snaps, especially if Michigan builds a comfortable lead.
Michigan's edge rotation is already deep with John Henry Daley, Dom Nichols, Cameron Brandt, and Nate Marshall. If Meadows can provide quality depth as the No. 5 edge rusher, the Wolverines will have an embarrassment of riches on defense, which spells trouble for Iowa's offensive line next week.
Transfer receiver Jaime Ffrench needs playing time
Jaime Ffrench arrived from Texas with good size and blazing speed, but he has seen just one snap all season, which came in Week 1 against Western Michigan. He didn't see the field at all against Oklahoma. With only two receivers catching passes so far, Ffrench's lack of involvement is notable.
This game against UTEP feels like the perfect opportunity to get Ffrench integrated into the offense ahead of the Iowa matchup. Even if rain limits the passing game, getting Ffrench meaningful snaps is critical for Michigan's offensive development.
What this means for Iowa
For Iowa fans, Saturday's game offers a chance to scout Michigan's potential weaknesses and strengths. If Marshall breaks out on the ground, Iowa's run defense will face a tougher test. If Marsh and Ffrench get going through the air, Michigan's offense becomes more dangerous.
Conversely, if Michigan continues to struggle offensively, Iowa's defense, which thrives on creating turnovers and applying pressure, could be in for a big day at the Big House. The Hawkeyes will be watching closely as Michigan looks to find its identity before the conference opener.