5 predictions for Michigan Football against Illinois

Michigan gets back to high-percentage throws

I know Michigan football fans have been frustrated with the passing game and the lack of explosive plays down the field in particular.

It’s a problem that’s about more than one person. J.J. McCarthy has missed some throws. The wide receivers have also missed some opportunities to make plays and you have to question some of the play-calling at times.

As Jim Harbaugh said last week, it’s hard to get in a rhythm when you never throw the ball. The coaching staff needs to get McCarthy’s confidence back and throwing the ball to Luke Schoonmaker can help with that.

He’s supposed to be back this week and if Donovan Edwards plays, I have a feeling that will open up the passing game. I don’t know that McCarthy is going to hit some deep balls, but I think he hits his usual 60-70 percent of his passes and two touchdowns.

I also think he’ll be careful to avoid interceptions of which Illinois has 17 this season.