Beating Michigan State isn't going to look super impressive from a national perspective but it was a must-win for Michigan football.
The Wolverines needed a jolt of momentum and they got it by finding a way on Saturday night. That doesn't mean that all the problems are fixed. Michigan's offense is going to roll with Davis Warren. Jack Tuttle has retired so the Warren/Orji combo will be it for the rest of the season if they stay healthy.
This week will be an entirely new challenge. The Oregon offense might be the best the Wolverines have faced this season, at least since Texas. Oregon's defense is stout too. The Ducks scored 35 points per game. They allow just 15 per game and rank in the top 25 in points scored, yards gained, points allowed and yards allowed.
This is team without many weaknesses. Michigan football on the other hand, ranks 123rd in total offense as well as 111th in points per game. The defense has been a little disappointing too but is 38th in yards and points allowed.
Part of the problem for the defense has been the inability of the offense to keep and move the ball. If the defense is on the field all day, eventually, it tends to wear down.
Yet, even with all of that, Michigan football is 5-3. A playoff berth is off the table unless, of course, the team wins out. It sounds crazy, but win on Saturday, you never know. Here's a look at the key info for Michigan football vs. Oregon.
Michigan football vs. Oregon odds
The Ducks are a 15-point favorite over the defending national champions. The over/under is 45 and the moneyline is -650 but +470 for Michigan.
Michigan vs. USC How to watch
Date: November 2nd
Game Time: 3:30 PM EST
Venue: The Big House
How to Watch: CBS Sports | Fubo TV
Michigan football vs. Oregon prediction
I feel like Oregon is going to get the best effort from this Michigan football team. Davis Warren found some confidence and the Wolverines figured out how to use Alex Orji.
Don't forget that teams traveling from the East Coast have struggled. USC nearly won at the Big House, but still Michigan needs to find a way to run the ball, whether that's with Orji, Kalel Mullings, or Donovan Edwards.
The goal for Michigan should be to reduce the plays and have the smallest number of plays possible. Run the ball, milk the clock, throw some high-percentage passes, and basically play keep away.
That's easier said than done but Oregon has struggled with some others teams. They did just dominate Illinois on the road, but can they play that well two weeks in a row? It might be the last stand for the Wolverines because their playoff hopes, currently on life support, will be dead with a loss.
I think that Michigan will keep it close. The Wolverines defense will play well, at times, and the offense will pull out a few trick plays. Oregon's quarterback is just too good though and the Ducks pull away from Michigan, 31-21.