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5 bold predictions for Michigan football against Illinois

Michigan football is coming off its bye week and here are five predictions for the Wolverines and the Fighting Illini.

By Chris Peterson

running back Kalel Mullings (20) celebrates a touchdown against USC with running back Donovan Edwards (7) during the second half at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor on Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024.
running back Kalel Mullings (20) celebrates a touchdown against USC with running back Donovan Edwards (7) during the second half at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor on Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024. / Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
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Halfway through the Michigan football season, one thing is clear: We haven't seen the best the Wolverines have to offer.

We have seen glimpses. There were moments against USC and Minnesota. Michigan football even had some strong moments against Washington when it scored 17 unanswered points to take the lead.

The defense has allowed too many big plays. The offense hasn't generated enough and the Wolverines haven't done a good job of protecting the ball.

That was the most important part of the winning formula. Michigan ran the ball, played great defense, and didn't turn the ball over (0.5 times per game last season compared to 1.5 in 2024).

If they are going to find that formula again it needs to start on Saturday. With that in mind, here are five predictions for the Wolverines against Illinois.

The offensive line has its best game

Sherrone Moore helped Michigan football win the Joe Moore Award in back-to-back years. The Wolverines haven't been fundamentally sound this season.

There have been issues at center and right tackle. Sherrone Moore talked about making some changes. If Myles Hinton is healthy enough to play at left tackle, Jeff Persi might get a chance at right tackle. Persi has struggled to run block. Evan Link has struggled to pass block.

It's been an adventure. But the Wolverines have had two weeks to fix it. U-M played well against USC and they'll need a game like that. Michigan needs around 200 yards rushing or so to win and Jack Tuttle needs protection.

I believe he will get it and we'll come away saying that was the best performance this season from the Michigan football offensive line.

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