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5 predictions for Michigan football vs. Minnesota

By Chris Peterson

Michigan running back Blake Corum runs for a first down during the first half against Bowling Green on Saturday, Sept. 16 2023, in Ann Arbor.
Michigan running back Blake Corum runs for a first down during the first half against Bowling Green on Saturday, Sept. 16 2023, in Ann Arbor. /
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. (Photo by Steven Branscombe/Getty Images) /

Michigan’s pass rush wreaks havoc

Mason Graham is a really good run defender, but he’s just as good as a pass rusher on the inside and that’s one reason why the Gophers are going to struggle to protect.

Minnesota is ranked sixth in the Big Ten with just six sacks allowed through five games. But four of those sacks were given up against Nebraska.

That shows that the offensive line is susceptible and as we said with the run defense, this Michigan defensive line is a different animal.

There isn’t an Aidan Hutchinson on this defense, but the Wolverines have four EDGE rushers who can all get home consistently in Derrick Moore, Braiden McGregor, Jaylen Harrell, and Josaiah Stewart who was the Co-Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week after two sacks.

If Michigan football is able to run the ball, it’s not going to be a good situation for Athan Kaliakmanis and Minnesota. I could see him throwing the ball 30-40 times on Saturday night and if that happens, he’s going to get hit by Michigan’s front — a lot.

Guessing sacks are always tough, but I think 3-4 seems reasonable, especially with Mason Graham who at times is unblockable inside.

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