Michigan Football: 3 bold predictions for the Wolverines against Wisconsin

Can Brandon Peters handle the pressure?

While the Badgers run game is a big reason for their success, the Wisconsin defense is darn good too. In fact, Wisconsin leads the Big Ten in scoring defense, total defense and rush defense. It also ranks second in pass defense.

Obviously, nothing is going to come easy for Michigan football and its redshirt freshman quarterback Brandon Peters. But the kid doesn’t need to throw for 300 yards to win. He needs to take care of the ball, convert some key third downs and find a way to get six points in the red zone.

Since Peters has taken over as the starting quarterback, the passing game has improved, but so has the rushing attack. Karan Higdon, who will likely play despite an injury, has been explosive; Chris Evans has been right there with him.

Certainly, establishing the run will be huge, but so much of this game is finding out about Peters and if he has what it takes to beat elite teams. He has played well against Rutgers, Minnesota and Maryland, now it’s time to do it against the big boys.

It may not be pretty, but I think Peters will play well, well enough for Michigan to have a chance at stunning the heavily-favored Badgers.