Michigan Football: Ranking each Wolverines opponent in 2022
4. Iowa (Away October 1st, 2022)
Michigan’s October schedule is probably one of the toughest in the nation this year as they will face three teams that were Big Ten contenders last year. To start this stretch they will face Iowa, which Michigan defeated in the 2021 Big Ten Championship, but should not be taken lightly.
The Hawkeyes have been one the most consistent programs in recent years, they have reached a bowl game in eight of the past nine seasons and have won their division twice in that time span. Iowa will once again have the tools to keep the ball rolling and compete for the Big Ten West again in 2022 but they will need to go through Michigan if they want to truly contend.
Look for the Wolverines to rely on Blake Corum and Donovan Edwards as they try to set the tone as they did in last year’s game but it will be a battle, placing this game at #4 on this list.
3. Penn State (Home October 15th, 2022)
When taking a look back at the 2021 college football season no team had a year quite like Penn State, and that is not a good thing.
The Nittany Lions were riding high early, as they defeated Auburn and started 5-0, looking to cruise to their first Big Ten championship since 2008. Unfortunately, things would not shake out that way. Penn State finished 7-6 and lost in the Outback Bowl.
Going into 2022, James Franklin and the Nittany Lions will face immense pressure to turn things around on the field, which will include defeating Michigan and competing for the Big Ten East division.
Penn State has the pieces in place, which makes it all the more frustrating for their fans. Sean Clifford, though inconsistent, is a skilled quarterback who has talent around him and will be the biggest factor in this game.
If he can play up to his potential, he will arguably be the best quarterback Michigan will face to that point in their 2022 schedule. Look for Michigan to get pressure on Clifford as they attempt to match the seven sacks they had in the 2021 contest. Maintaining defensive pressure and a consistent rushing attack will be key to a Wolverine victory and keeping the seat warm for Franklin and Penn State.