Michigan is looking to end their 3 game losing streak against Iowa today. The Hawkeyes are having quite the down year so far, but the Wolverines cannot overlook them. Michigan is trying to keep its very small hopes alive for a Fiesta Bowl invite or at the very least the Capital One Bowl.
Iowa Rush Offense vs Michigan Rush Defense
The running back position has been cursed in Iowa City over the past few years, and they bring their depleted runners into Ann Arbor. They will either be playing former walk-on Mark Weisman or 3rd string running back Damon Bullock. Either way, the Hawkeye offensive line is just plain bad. They weren't very good to start the year, but have 2 new players in the rotation and a guard that has switched to tackle. Michigan should control the line of scrimmage for most of the game. Look for Will Campbell and Quinton Washington to have big games today. Advantage Michigan.
Iowa Pass Offense vs Michigan Pass Defense
James Vandenberg has been disappointing this entire season, but Iowa always plays well against Big Blue so I have no reason to believe this won't be the case again this year. The Hawkeyes have limited deep threat options, but will run 6 yard routes to tight ends all game long. The key will be to keep Iowa in 3rd and long situations, because they will still try to run the 6 yard routes. The Michigan cornerbacks should be able to stay in man coverage and have success. The key here will be can Mattison dial up enough effective blitzes to pressure Vandenberg. The Michigan pass rush has been pretty weak this season without called blitzes. I think Jake Ryan, Frank Clark, and Jordan Kovacs will have a big day in the back field. Advantage Michigan.
Michigan Rush Offense vs Iowa Rush Defense
Fitz Toussaint looked a little better last week, but has struggled for much of the season. If Denard plays then Michigan should be able to run the ball effectively. If he doesn't Michigan will likely struggle to get to 150 yards against the middle of the road defense. Iowa's best defender is a cornerback, and will not be able to come down and help with the running game much in this game. The Michigan offensive line should be able to open up holes in this game. It will be interesting to see the game plan Borges comes with the week before Ohio State, he might try a few things to make Urban think a little more. Advantage Michigan.
Michigan Pass Offense vs Iowa Pass Defense
Again this section has a lot to do with if Denard plays quarterback and is asked to throw the ball. If Devin is the quarterback then Michigan should be able to pass at will against Iowa. Micah Hyde is one of the best cornerbacks in the conference, but he cannot cover everyone. The rest of the defensive secondary is below average, including a young inexperienced safety that Borges will likely go after a few times. I think Devin will continue his impressive passing day (250+ yards). Advantage Michigan.
Alright folks, Iowa is not that good. Michigan should be able to score nearly at will while shutting down the Iowa offense. The problem is that Ferentz coaches well against the Wolverines and Michigan could beat themselves. I think the Wolverines will start slow on Senior Day, possibly looking ahead to Ohio State but will bounce back for a big win. Michigan 45 - Iowa 13.
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