Michigan vs. Western Michigan Game Preview
As Michigan prepares to open its season against reigning MAC champion Western Michigan, some may view the matchup as a warmup—or even a “cupcake”—before the schedule intensifies. However, this game could be more challenging than many expect.
With a new coaching staff in place, the Wolverines must prove that the chemistry developed throughout camp will translate to game day. Michigan should have opportunities to fine-tune some things, but college football has repeatedly shown that anything can happen on any given Saturday. Michigan knows that as well as anyone.
Michigan’s Offense Faces Its First Test
The first area to watch will be Michigan’s offense.
Western Michigan may compete in the MAC, but the Broncos return several key defensive players, including defensive backs Jarvarius Sims and Kouri Crump and linebacker Domanick Moon. Their experience should provide an early test for Bryce Underwood and Michigan’s passing attack.
This matchup will offer the first real indication of how much Underwood has developed during the offseason and whether the chemistry between him and his receivers has carried over from camp. Defensive lineman Scoop Gardner is another player Michigan must account for up front.
The Wolverines should have an advantage in the running game. If the offense performs as advertised, Michigan should control the line of scrimmage and take pressure off Underwood and the receivers. Still, dominance is never guaranteed—it must be established on the field.
Tight ends Hogan Hansen and Zack Marshall could serve as valuable safety nets for Underwood, particularly early in the game. Getting them involved with high-percentage throws could help the sophomore quarterback settle into a rhythm.
Jordan Marshall will lead a talented Michigan backfield alongside freshman Savion Hiter, who reportedly impressed the coaching staff throughout camp. Bryson Kuzdal could also become a factor because of his ability to create explosive plays in space.
At receiver, Andrew Marsh enters the season as Michigan’s top option and could create significant problems for Sims and the Western Michigan secondary. Jaime Ffrench has also performed exceptionally well throughout camp and could quickly establish himself as another reliable weapon for Underwood. With JJ Buchanan, Channing Goodwin, Travis Johnson and Salesi Moa also in the rotation, this may be Michigan’s deepest receiving corps since the early 2000s.
The Debut of Jay Hill’s Defense
Defensively, Michigan fans will finally get their first look at Jay Hill’s system and what it could bring to the Wolverines this season.
Veteran quarterback Broc Lowry is expected to lead Western Michigan’s offense. His experience should help the Broncos handle the challenge of playing inside Michigan Stadium.
Western Michigan also brings in running back Jalen Buckley, a 1,000-yard rusher last season who should serve as the workhorse of the Broncos’ offense. On the outside, Baylin Brooks and Emazon Littlejohn will provide Lowry with downfield targets capable of testing Michigan’s secondary.
Western Michigan’s experienced offense will provide an important opening-week test for Michigan’s defensive front. John Henry Daley, Trey Pierce and Enow Etta must control the line of scrimmage, close running lanes and prevent Buckley from establishing an early rhythm. Dominic Nichols will also be counted on to generate pressure off the edge and make Lowry uncomfortable in the pocket. If Michigan consistently wins up front, it will allow the Wolverines’ talented secondary to play aggressively and create opportunities for turnovers.
The linebacker group reportedly improved steadily throughout camp. Troy Bowles, Nathaniel Owusu-Boateng and Nathaniel Staehling will be counted on to keep the defense organized, composed and disciplined.
Michigan’s loaded secondary will also face an important early test. Three-time captain Rod Moore is back, and this matchup will provide the first look at how healthy and effective he is after returning to the field.
Jyaire Hill, Zeke Berry, Smith Snowden and Chris Bracy will join Moore in a defensive backfield capable of making the afternoon difficult for Lowry. If the secondary holds up in coverage, Michigan’s pass rushers should have opportunities to get into the backfield and disrupt Western Michigan’s offense.
Final Outlook
Ultimately, I expect Michigan to deliver a dominant performance on both sides of the ball. Western Michigan has enough experience to test the Wolverines in certain areas, but Michigan’s talent and depth should take over as the game progresses.
It will also be an important opportunity for the Wolverines to build momentum before a difficult Week 2 matchup against an Oklahoma team looking to come into Ann Arbor and steal an early-season victory.
Final Score Prediction
Michigan 35, Western Michigan 10
Offensive Player of the Game: Jordan Marshall
Defensive Player of the Game: Enow Etta
Go Blue!