How Can Michigan football salvage its season?
The simple answer to the question above is by winning the rest of the games on their schedule. These are not just any other games, though. Winning out the remainder of the season would mean the Wolverines knock off two top 10 opponents (and Northwestern). Two top-10 wins to finish the season would take some of the sting out of this season. Nobody in their right might would predict Michigan football to do this, but it also is not completely out of the question.
Indiana
Indiana is having a historic season in so many ways this year. They are 9-0 and currently sit at #8 in the first college football playoff rankings. They have not just won every game on their schedule so far, but they have done so convincingly.
However, the version of Michigan football that is coming to Bloomington on Saturday is going to be the best team they have faced all year. A hungry team, that has played in tons of big games and that has nothing to lose. That is not exactly a combination that will make Indiana fans uncomfortable and it is something that should excite the Michigan program and the fans. Do not get it twisted though, this Indiana team is for real. Just look at how they compare to last year's national championship Michigan team from last year through nine games.
Just so we're clear here. After 9 games:
— Tony Adragna (@CoachAdragna) November 4, 2024
Michigan '23 PPG: 41.9
Indiana '24 PPG: 46.6
Michigan '23 Avg. Margin of Victory: 35.2
Indiana '24 Avg. Margin of Victory: 32.9
Michigan '23 Opponent Record: 36-44
Indiana '24 Opponent Record: 34-45
Michigan '23 RZ Efficiency: 88.2%…
Ohio State
The Wolverines are going to enter Columbus as a heavy underdog on the final Saturday in November. Ohio State will most likely be trying to position themselves for a rematch against Oregon in the Big Ten Championship.
Michigan football will not be playing for much in terms of season success. However, they will be playing for something almost just as important... spoiling the Buckeyes' postseason hopes. Ever since Michigan implemented the "What are you doing to beat Ohio State today" mantra in their facility, they have a new swagger when it comes to The Game.
I don't envision a Michigan team taking the field fearing losing, I envision a Michigan team taking the field and seeking a path to success. The possibility of ending Ohio State's postseason hopes by beating them on their home field should be all the motivation this team needs to play their best game. The coaching staff has had a shaky couple of weeks but you have to imagine that with championship aspirations out the window, a lot of their preparation energy has shifted towards The Game.