5 predictions for Michigan football against Ohio State

Michigan football will face Ohio State as a massive underdog on Saturday and here are five predictions for the Wolverines and Buckeyes.

Michigan defensive lineman Mason Graham celebrates a tackle against Ohio State during the second half at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor on Saturday, Nov. 25, 2023.
Michigan defensive lineman Mason Graham celebrates a tackle against Ohio State during the second half at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor on Saturday, Nov. 25, 2023. | Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK
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Both teams will struggle to run the ball

Neither team is going to have much success running the ball. Ohio State allows just 90 yards per game. The Buckeyes are known for their pass rush but if any defensive line rivals Michigan's, it's probably Ohio State's which has multiple first-round picks.

The Wolverines made some adjustments during the bye week to help their offensive line and it helped them rush for over 200 yards against a Northwestern defense allowing 3.6 yards per attempt.

But will that translate this week? Michigan had to work for rushing yards last season with an elite offensive line and Blake Corum. Kalel Mullings and Donovan Edwards are NFL-caliber backs. But the offensive line isn't and the Wolverines will be held under 100 yards.

Ohio State won't have much success either, but I think Will Howard and his ability to run will be an X-factor. That will allow Ohio State to have the edge in rushing yards.

Schedule

Schedule