Raise your hand if you are ecstatic that Michigan football is back. I am going to assume that everyone has their hands raised, because who isn't excited to see this new team that seems to be invigorated by the new coaching staff?
Kyle Whittingham came to Ann Arbor, and it seemed like the narrative of this Michigan team changed real fast, with the players and coaches ready to leave the drama in the rearview mirror. With that said, they have been focused on getting ready for the 2026 season and competing at the highest level, and it all starts with Western Michigan.
As a strong team in the MAC last season, the Broncos are not a team to overlook, and the Wolverines only being a 27.5-point favorite shows that. Michigan still needs to be on their A-game against Western Michigan, especially if they want to build momentum heading into Week 2 against preseason No. 10 Oklahoma.
Final odds for Western Michigan vs. No. 16 Michigan in Week 1
Odds provided by FanDuel Sportsbook
Spread
- Western Michigan: +27.5 (-105)
- Michigan: -27.5 (-115)
Moneyline
- Western Michigan: +2000
- Michigan: -7000
Total
- O/U: 49.5 (-110/-110)
Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem and wants help, call 1-800-GAMBLER.
Michigan's running back room will be the star of the show vs. Western Michigan
All eyes will be on Bryce Underwood and how much he has actually improved in the offseason, I think there should be a lot of attention on the run game for the Wolverines. Michigan has probably its strongest running back room in years with starter Jordan Marshall and five-star freshman Savion Hiter leading the way.
There will be plenty of passes called for Underwood and his improved receiving corps, but when Michigan builds enough of a lead, get ready to see the running backs sore. Marshall showed last season he had no problem shouldering the load of a starter, and now with Hiter behind him, the two could become the best rushing duo in the country.
Hiter is one of the most anticipated freshmen in college football this season, so expect him to see the field a lot. I predict he could get as much as 10 plus carries in what should be a big Michigan win. Later in the game, when starters are pulled, Hiter might be in the mix to sit, but if he isn't, offensive coordinator Jason Beck just might let him loose on the defense.
Whittingham is going to want to keep playcalling fairly vanilla as to not give too much away early int he season, so be ready for the run game to be featured int hsi matchup. Michigan should easily walk away in the win in the end, and with the right momentum heading into Week 2.
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