5 predictions for Michigan Football against Penn State

Michigan limits Singleton, Penn State ground game

One of the factors in this matchup is going to be the Michigan pass against the Penn State offensive line, but the even bigger matchup is the D-line against Penn State’s running game.

Here’s the thing about Clifford: he’s been solid this year but he’s had a really good running game and his offensive line has protected him. The two things go hand-in-hand. It’s easier to protect your quarterback if you are constantly in manageable down and distances.

Otherwise, teams can bring exotic pressure packages, and pass rushers can pin their ears back without having to worry about the run. That’s exactly how Michigan football wants to play on third down when it’s on defense.

And the key to start is making Penn State one-dimensional. The Wolverines have been pretty good at doing that, allowing opponents just 2.6 yards per attempt.

It will be really difficult against Nicholas Singleton and Kayton Allen, two super-talented freshmen, but this defense is going to play with its hair on fire and I think Penn State is held under 100 yards rushing, which puts the onus of winning the game on Clifford, which is a good thing for the Wolverines.