3 bold predictions for Michigan football vs. Minnesota

There is a renewed sense of hope surrounding Michigan football following the 27-24 win over USC last week. But that win won't mean anything if the Wolverines don't follow it up with wins against Minnesota this week and Washington next week before the bye.

Minnesota is up next. The Gophers averaged 335 yards on offense and allowed just 223 per game on defense. However, those numbers are a little misleading. Minnesota gave up 272 on the ground last week to Iowa and there are plenty of questions about how the defense will respond.

Max Brosmer is throwing for over 200 yards per game as the quarterbaback. He's got five touchdowns and three interceptions. He's also not mobile and doesn't have the weapons that Miller Moss did at his disposal last week.

Michigan football can't afford to take anyone lightly though, especially if the offense doesn't improve. Looking ahead to Saturday morning's game here are three bold predictions.

Kalel Mullings rushes for 150 yards again

Kalel Mullings looked like Marshawn Lynch last week on his critical fourth-quarter run before barreling his way into the end zone to win the game.

The offensive line has been playing better, at least in terms of run blocking. The Wolverines had 290 yards last week and Mullings had over half of them.

Minnesota is allowing 3.8 yards per rush but Iowa's Kaleb Johnson ran for 272 yards last week. I don't see Mullings having that much success but he'll get more carries than last week, and by the fourth quarter, he'll hit the century mark.

That's not only a prediction, it's a key for Michigan football and if Mullings doesn't get going, Donovan Edwards will have to find a way to hit a home run.