5 predictions for Michigan football against No. 1 Oregon

For the first time since 2006 and "The Game" against Ohio State, Michigan football will face the No. 1 ranked team in college football.

The Oregon Ducks have already defeated Ohio State this season. They also beat Illiinois and Oregon State. This week will be their second trip to the Midwest in three weeks.

Dillon Gabriel has been outstanding at the quarterback position for Oregon, leading the Big Ten in passing yards per game (297) and touchdown passes (18). He's also got five rushing touchdowns and four different pass catchers with over 300 yards. Jordan James has rushed for 800 yards

This might be the most complete offense Michigan football has faced so far this season, plus the defense is 10th in college football in scoring defense (15.6 ppg). The defense has seven interceptions and 24 sacks.

Michigan football will need to be nearly perfect to win this game and here are five predictions.

Michigan doesn't allow a repeat of Texas

The game against Texas was over by halftime. Quinn Ewers converted a bunch of third downs and scored a couple of times early to put the game out of reach.

That won't be the case on Saturday. I'm not saying Michigan football is going to beat Oregon, but I think the defense will play inspired early and give the Ducks some fits.

Stopping the run is essential for Michigan football. The Wolverines didn't do it against Texas and if they can't on Saturday, Oregon will roll. The U-M defensive line won't allow that to happen again.

The Ducks might pull away and cover the spread in the second half, but I think Michigan will be within striking distance through most of the game.