Coming off a heartbreaking loss to the Iowa Hawkeyes last weekend, Michigan’s time to make charge in the legends division is beginning to run very short.
Brady Hoke and the Wolverines enter today’s game against a struggling Illinois team coming off a bye week but prior to that had dropped three straight games.
What may play into the Illini’s favor is Michigan is only 1-2 away from the Big House this season, something Hoke and the Wolverines would like to turn around starting today.
Illinois player to watch: Whitney Mercilus, DL
The junior defensive lineman currently leads the nation in sacks (11.5) and forced fumbles (six).
It’s going to be interesting to see how Denard Robinson handles a strong pass rush in Mercilus and whether or not the Wolverines can continue to develop a running game outside of the Shoelace.
Michigan player to watch: Denard Robinson, QB
Even though Brady Hoke appears to be slowly making that transition to Devon Gardner, the offense still lives and dies with Denard Robinson.
In recent weeks Robinson has been ineffective on the ground and through the air but he is still very elusive and capable of big plays.
With that said Denard Robinson needs to get the offense going quick after managing only 6 first half points last weekend.
Continue making strides on defense
Michigan has almost done a complete 180 on defense this season. After being ranked 110th in the nation last year, something every uncharacteristic of traditional Michigan teams, Greg Mattison has the Wolverines playing much more sound and the numbers prove it. This season Michigan is ranked 28th nationally in total defense (335.8 yards) and are ranked 10th in scoring defense (16.4).
Obviously if a team can’t score they can’t win. Illinois has averaged just 9.3 points over their past three games. Michigan has the opportunity to be very dominant this afternoon.
Prediction
This week Michigan is desperate. They’re desperate to get their road record turned around, they’re desperate to the Michigan of old and they’re desperate to get a win. Meanwhile Illinois is a team that had high hopes coming into the 2011 season but for the most part have fallen flat on their faces.
We wont see a high scoring affair like we did last season but I still anticipate a good close game.
Michigan 21, Illinois 17
Ref: Detroit News, AnnArbor.com, nflamateurs.wordpress.com (image)
