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

ANN ARBOR, MICHIGAN - SEPTEMBER 03: J.J. McCarthy #9 of the Michigan Wolverines embraces Donovan Edwards #7 of the Michigan Wolverines during the game against the Colorado State Rams at Michigan Stadium on September 03, 2022 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. (Photo by Nic Antaya/Getty Images) /

2 of 3

Michigan defensive back Will Johnson celebrates a play against Nebraska during the second half of U-M’s 34-3 win over Nebraska on Saturday, Nov. 12, 2022, in Ann Arbor. /

Will Johnson

If you’re unfamiliar with Ohio State’s offense, they’re pretty good at passing the football. Quarterback CJ Stroud is a frontrunner for the Heisman Trophy and the #1 NFL draft pick.

Stroud is surrounded by five-star receivers who can make any catch. In remotely decent weather, the Buckeyes have been able to torch teams at will through the air.

This poses a huge challenge for the Wolverines’ secondary. Nobody will feel this challenge more than cornerback Will Johnson.

The five-star freshman has played up to his ranking so far this year but has never faced anything like the receivers at Ohio State. It’s also likely that Ryan Day will look to target the untested freshman, making this a true sink-or-swim game for Johnson.

If he can match the challenge, the defense will be in good shape. If he cannot, it’ll be a long day for the Wolverines.

Home/Michigan Football