3 keys for Michigan football vs. Iowa in Big Ten Championship Game

Nov 4, 2023; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; Michigan Wolverines quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9) passes in the first half against the Purdue Boilermakers in the first half against the Purdue Boilermakers at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports /

3 of 3

Nov 18, 2023; Iowa City, Iowa, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Deacon Hill (10) rolls out against the Illinois Fighting Illini during the third quarter at Kinnick Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports /

Pressure Deacon Hill

One of the biggest keys that won’t be mentioned here is Michigan football not looking past Iowa or ahead to the College Football Playoff.

As we said earlier this week, Michigan can make the playoff with a loss, but it would be much better to take any suspense out of the mix and just beat Iowa.

On the field, a key to making that happen is applying pressure on quarterback Deacon Hill. He’s got just five touchdown passes this season. He’s also completed just 48 percent of his passes this season and he hasn’t faced a defense as good as Michigan’s.

Hill did play a little against Penn State, a game in which Iowa didn’t score any points. The Hawkeyes scored just 13 last week and that was after forcing three turnovers.

Next. 5 things to watch for Michigan vs. Iowa. dark

If there isn’t a running game, Hill is going to be thrown to the Wolves. This Michigan defense is as good as it gets and has been stellar at taking the ball away. And if Hill is forced into unfavorable down and distances, it’s going to be a long night.

Home/Michigan Football