Michigan Football: 3 X-Factors for the Wolverines Against Ohio State

For Michigan football to beat Ohio State, all hands need to be on deck. This ranges from players coming back from injury to everyone needing to play their best game.

Ohio State, while beatable, is an entirely different beast from any team Michigan football has played this year and will present new challenges the Wolverines have not seen in a long time.

Of all of the players on this team that could make an impact, there are three that will be the biggest. Their individual performances could very well dictate how the game turns out and will be major storylines as the game develops. Today, we’re going to break those three guys down.

1. Donovan Edwards

Of course, Michigan’s offense is going to run through Blake Corum, so long as he’s healthy. His impact is unparalleled. But Edwards’ status might be just as important to winning this game. After missing the past game and a half with a rumored hand injury, any limits on Edwards will be critical.

I don’t think it’s bold to say that Edwards has been one of, if not the greatest receiving threat for the Wolverines. He adds an element that nobody else on this offense can provide. Additionally, the ability to turn to such a good 2nd running back to lighten the load on Corum is invaluable.

Corum’s tanked through much of this year, but giving him 40 carries on a banged-up knee is not a plan Michigan can count on.

If Edwards plays, it will be a huge plus for Michigan. If he’s full-go as a receiver, it gets even better. Much of this team’s potential offensive success rides on those aspects.