Michigan Football: Is Chase Winovich needed to beat Ohio State?

If Chase Winovich is unable to play for Michigan football Saturday, can the Wolverines beat Ohio State without him?

Outside of a loss, the worst thing that could have happened against Indiana last Saturday for Michigan football was a major injury. And the shoulder injury to Chase Winovich, if it’s enough to keep him out of the Ohio State game Saturday, would definitely be considered major.

There were rumors circulating on the internet soon after the game that the star defensive end for Michigan football broke his collarbone. However, head coach Jim Harbaugh quickly dispelled that notion, saying that X-rays taken were negative.

Monday we heard even more from Harbaugh on the status of Winovich, unfortunately, we didn’t really get anything definitive. Here’s what Harbaugh had to say according to the Detroit Free Press: 

“Best possible outcome for both (running back) Berkley (Edwards) and Chase. That’s the way it looked on Saturday. CAT scans were negative, X-rays negative for both Berkley and Chase. But continuing to evaluate every day.”

Certainly, it’s good to hear that Berkley Edwards is doing well. His injury was really scary. Yet, the big news involves Winovich, who might be the Wolverines best defensive player. He’s certainly their best pass rusher and the prospect of beating Ohio State seems more difficult without him.

Honestly, if there is any possible way Winovich can play, you have to believe he’s going to go. He came back his senior season to win championships and Michigan football wins the Big Ten East with a win over the Buckeyes Saturday.

If something is broken or playing can jeopardize his NFL future, then sure, he might sit out. But if it’s a matter of dealing with the pain or something along those lines, I’d expect Winovich to play. It’s going to take something major to keep him out.

However, if Winovich can’t go, do the Wolverines still have enough to beat Ohio State?

It’s a fair question to ask. Winovich is a significant part of the Michigan defense, both with his ability to rush the passer and hold up against the run. The senior has 48 tackles, 12 tackles for loss and four sacks. He’s also a big reason why UM has the top-ranked defense in the country.

That being said, Michigan football, especially with the return of Rashan Gary in recent weeks, should still have enough on defense to beat the Buckeyes. Gary will need to play a more prominent role, as will Josh Uche and Kwity Paye, however, the Wolverines pass rush has been effective all year, even when Gary missed a few games.

In fact, the Wolverines might miss Winovich’s fire and leadership as much as his ability on the field. Certainly, he will be on the field either way, but having the captain dressed out would be monumental.

Michigan is certainly capable of winning the game without him because the defense has a wealth of talent. But it will also be more difficult and that’s why we should all hope for good news in the coming days, although I expect we won’t know for sure one way or another until shortly before kickoff.