Michigan Football: 5 predictions for Wolverines against Illinois

Defense makes impact plays

No matter the level of competition, holding two conference opponents, one of them ranked 14th, to a total of three points is impressive.

You can throw out the results against Rutgers if you want because the Scarlet Knights have frequently been shutout since joining the Big Ten, but there is no discounting the domination of Iowa.

Nate Stanley is a pretty solid quarterback, one I would think has a good chance of getting drafted, albeit late, in the NFL. He’s a veteran and he’s won a lot of games and Michigan football made him look silly.

The Wolverines stuffed the run game, beat up on the receivers and bruised Stanley all day with their pass rush.

I’d expect something similar this week. Illinois does have some talented guys, especially Corban, who is one of the Big Ten’s best backs and Peters. The Fighting Illini will score some points and will reach double digits, however, Michigan will get at least five sacks and force three turnovers.

The secondary also feels due for a defensive touchdown.