5 things to watch for Michigan football vs. Ohio State

Will McCarthy deliver?

If there is one big advantage Michigan football has going into this game: It’s J.J. McCarthy.

The former five-star quarterback contributed with four touchdowns last season, including three that went for over 45 yards last season. That’s the kind of performance McCarthy needs on Saturday. He needs to be among the best players on the field.

McCarthy didn’t make a huge impact at Penn State. He only threw eight times and while he completed seven passes, and made an impact with his running ability, that’s not going to cut it.

Michigan football can’t run the ball 32 times in a row against Ohio State. The Buckeyes are better at stopping the run than people realize.

The Wolverines should find success on the ground, but if they are going to make it three wins in a row, McCarthy needs to be elite, like he has been most of this season.

The fact that he said he’s feeling better than last week is a positive sign. Maryland was probably the second-worst showing of the season. But I’d expect a bounce-back game and if J.J. plays well, I have a hard time seeing Michigan lose the game.