Michigan Football: 5 reasons Wolverines will beat Wisconsin

Having the better quarterback is always an advantage

Last season, with Brandon Peters and John O’Korn under center, Michigan football was at a big disadvantage against Wisconsin, who has Hornibrook. The veteran isn’t spectacular, but is experienced and knows how to win big games.

Hornibrook isn’t going to carry Wisconsin to a win, but he can make some big plays down the field and leave the rest of it up to the defense and running game. Yet, with Patterson quarterbacking Michigan this season, the Wolverines have the edge.

Patterson is completing 68 percent of his passes and is the best deep-ball thrower in the Big Ten. Against the Badgers pass defense, which ranks 11th in the Big Ten and gave up nearly 400 yards against Nebraska, Patterson, Zach Gentry, Donovan Peoples-Jones and Nico Collins should have a field day.

The other x-factor Patterson brings in his ability to run. Michigan hasn’t had that under Harbaugh and over the past few weeks, Patterson has shown just how valuable his playmaking ability can be. Whether it’s getting first downs or keeping plays alive and going down the field, one way or another, Patterson’s ability to extend plays will help Michigan win this game.