Week 10: Minnesota Preview

At the beginning of the week this game looked like another likely loss with Denard's status uncertain.  Today the Michigan coaching staff revealed he would start tomorrow's game, which drastically changes the outlook. Most of the Rose Bowl hope was extinguished with last weekend's effort, but I guess the Wolverines can still ruin Ohio State's perfect season, win their remaining regular season games, and knock off a top 10 SEC team in the Capitol One Bowl.

Minnesota Rush Offense vs Michigan Rush Defense
The Golden Gophers are improving on the offensive side of the ball this season, but are nothing compared to what Michigan has faced with multiple teams already this year.  The Wolverine defensive line should have no problem taking on blocks to allow for free linebackers.  Minnesota also will not threaten too much with a vertical passing game, so the secondary will be able to come up and help more in the run game.  Look for Quinton Washington, Kenny Demens, and Jordan Kovacs to bounce back in a big way tomorrow. Advantage Michigan.

Minnesota Pass Offense vs Michigan Pass Defense
The Wolverines continue to take advantage of the sub-par passing attacks in the B1G, and have recently taken over the top passing defense in the nation.  Minnesota has turned the reins over to a freshman quarterback that fits Coach Jerry Kill's system well.  This kid will likely turn into an above average B1G signal caller by the time he is a junior, but the inexperience will really hamper him tomorrow.  Nebraska was likely the best passing team Michigan will face this year, and they held Martinez to a season low in yards.  I think the Michigan pass rush will be able to crank up a few more blitzes tomorrow and Jake Ryan and Craig Roh will be in the back field most of the afternoon. Advantage Michigan.

Michigan Rush Offense vs Minnesota Rush Defense
Now we get to the offensive side of the ball and we hit the biggest question marks.  If Denard does in fact start, and is healthy again, Michigan should be able to go over 200 yards on the ground with little trouble.  If number 16 has to come out of the game again, the running attack will likely cease to exist.  It seems that Fitz is just not going to get it going like last year and will continue to be a disappointment in the back field (I guess we dont have to worry about him leaving early). I am interested to see if Rawls gets some playing time tomorrow, and if not him, someone other than Fitz or Smith.  With Denard, Michigan has the huge advantage.  Without him, I would lean toward Minnesota.

Michigan Pass Offense vs Minnesota Pass Defense
Again, this section greatly depends on whether Denard can play for a full 60 minutes.  The receivers have shown that there is nothing exceptional about the unit, so they will not be able to help out a back up quarterback if one is needed.  The tight ends are all one dimensional at this point in their careers, and the offensive line is struggling with consistency.  Denard was showing last Saturday that he looked comfortable in the pocket and he made some extremely good throws before he got hurt.  I don't see any reason why that wouldn't continue the rest of the season if he can stay on the field.  With Denard, advantage Michigan.  Without Denard, huge advantage Minnesota.

This game comes down to the quarterback play.  If Denard stays in for 4 quarters, Michigan has the huge advantage in this category and the game should be over by halftime. On the flip  side, if Bellomy or Gardner hits the field for critical minutes then Michigan's best chance of moving the ball will be trying to get 30 yard penalties like last weekend in Lincoln.  I think, or at least want to believe, that Denard is back to 100% and Michigan rolls to a bounce back win 34-13.