Michigan Football: 3 Keys to beating Indiana Hoosiers

The Michigan Wolverines are coming off a disappointing loss to their in-state rival and nemesis, the Michigan State Spartans. Can they leave that loss in the rearview mirror? Or will they have a letdown against this Hoosier team?

There’s no way around it. Michigan football let one slip away last Saturday in East Lansing. The Wolverines loss to the undefeated Michigan State was a nail-biter that they should’ve won.

Next up is Indiana. Coming off one of their all-time best seasons in the 2019 campaign, the Hoosiers of 2021 are disappointing, to say the least. Entering the contest against the Wolverines standing at 2-6, Indiana is looking for their first (and possibly only) signature win this season.

For Michigan football to walk out of The Big House this Saturday night with the Big Ten championship and possible playoff berth still in play, the Wolverines can’t afford to lose it all in a potential letdown game this week.

What do the Wolverines need to do to come out on top? And how can they avoid a potential upset?

Let’s discuss their three keys to victory against this week’s opponent, the Indiana Hoosiers.

1. Start Fast on Both Sides of the Ball

The best way to overcome last week’s loss? Start fast.

Michigan football needs confidence on both sides of the ball and making a strong impression early on offense is the best that will prevent a slide not only this game but going forward.

The Wolverine offensive game plan last week against Michigan State was designed to perfection. A similar game-plan would be beneficial in this game as well considering the Hoosiers have similar weaknesses as the Spartans.

Indiana’s loss to the Ohio State Buckeyes shows those flaws (click HERE for the highlights of that game). The Hoosiers are prone to not only the big play but downhill action in the run game, as well as passes in the intermediate levels of the field.

Those are all three things that Michigan has excelled at this season. And the Buckeyes have already shown that’s the way to put the foot on the throat of these Hoosiers.

Don’t go away from last week’s plan just because it resulted in a loss. Rather, lean on it and take those shots early. Get Cade McNamara going early with a shot down the field, utilize Andrel Anthony who looks like the best wide receiver on the team (as evidenced by THIS PLAY).

Hit them in the mouth and they will fold. The weapons are there and the game-plan is already familiar. Make it happen.