Michigan Football: 5 predictions for Wolverines against Michigan State

J.J. McCarthy makes his presence felt

J.J. McCarthy is the cult hero of Michigan football right now. Something magic seems to happen whenever he comes in the game and sometimes, even if it’s ugly, it’s exciting.

And Michigan has done a nice job of integrating him into the offense, both as a runner and a thrower. I’ve been saying for some time when McCarthy comes in for what looks like a run on short yardage, he’s going to bomb one deep.

I’ve been waiting for it and maybe Saturday is the day. McCarthy isn’t Tim Tebow after all and even though he can run better than Cade, his arm talent is what sets him above the rest.

He’s the most talented quarterback playing in this game and somehow, someway, Michigan football is going to find a way to take advantage of that talent, and J.J. — he’ll be ready.

McCarthy ran for a touchdown and threw for a touchdown at Wisconsin. I don’t think he’ll do that per se, but he’ll make a key play or two for the Wolverines.

Prediction

I do think Michigan football will win this game but it won’t be easy. Payton Thorne and his receivers will make some plays down the field and it will stay close throughout.

But as I said, Jake Moody is going to play a big role in this one and I think Michigan gets a field goal late from him that helps seal the deal.

U-M will play a cleaner game, win the turnover battle and leave East Lansing with Paul Bunyan.

Final score: Michigan 26, Michigan State 17