Michigan vs. Wisconsin football preview

Wolverines look to start Big Ten season with a win

This looks to be a battle between two teams headed in different directions. The Badgers won a close battle at Fresno State two weeks ago to stay unbeaten and bring a #8 ranking into the game. Michigan, on the other hand, is the only losing team in the Big Ten and lost a sloppy game to Notre Dame last time out with six turnovers.

Wisconsin might not be the most exciting team to watch, but they are as dependable as the sun coming up in the east every year. This year is no different for the Badgers with a solid ground game led by P.J. Hill and a veteran defense as they usually do not beat themselves.

If there was one bright spot for Michigan fans against the Irish it was the improved play of the offense, when not fumbling, and especially quarterback Steve Threet. The defense, which has been good and bad so far, will not only have to be solid against the Badgers ground game, but limit the big plays which have plagued them this year.

Even Matt Millen could tell you that turnovers are important in football games, though in this contest they are vital for both teams. If Michigan gets behind and gives Wisconsin easy scores like they did for Notre Dame, they have no chance to pull the upset. The Wolverines need a couple of breaks early to get a lead and try to make Wisconsin take to the air with Allen Everidge. If the visitors protect the ball, like they usually do, Michigan will have a hard time generating much offense against the Badgers.

A key to the game when Michigan is on defense will be containing the all-american tight end Travis Beckum. The Wolverines should do a decent job against the run, but when Wisconsin takes to the air they must have an answer for Beckum who hurt them last year in Madison on third down.

When Michigan is on offense, if they want to have a chance in this game, they need to hit some plays over the top of the Badgers' defense. Threet had chances in the first two games and was not very accurate, against the Irish he not only hit a couple passes he displayed a lot more poise than the first couple weeks. Wisconsin should jam the line on scrimmage to stop Sam McGuffie, so there will be chances to hit some big plays.

This should have the look of an SEC game as points will be at a premium. Though Michigan should keep the game close throughout, expect Wisconsin to put it out.

Wisconsin 20 - Michigan 17

by Paul Rodman
BigTen-fans.com Michigan Correspondent