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A win is a win, but not all wins are the same when looking at college football teams. Last week, the No. 9 Michigan Wolverines had a tough time against Fresno State Bulldogs. They won 30-10, but it wasn’t easy.
Yet, they still managed to keep it interesting until the fourth quarter.
Michigan is supposed to be one of the best teams, so struggling against Fresno State raises concerns. The Bulldogs are good in their league but aren’t on Michigan’s level. Plus, they lost their coach Jeff Tedford late due to health issues.
Now, Sherrone Moore is leading Michigan instead of Jim Harbaugh. But last week’s game didn’t show that they can easily beat Texas this Saturday. It’s “Big Noon Saturday” in Ann Arbor with ESPN’s College GameDay there too.
I have huge worries about Michigan’s offense.
Last season, both Michigan and Texas were among the final four teams in the College Football Playoff. But that was last year. Texas looks strong enough for this year’s expanded playoff. Michigan might struggle to even be the fourth Big Ten team to qualify.
The biggest issue for Michigan? Their quarterback play might stink. J.J. McCarthy left for the NFL after just three seasons because his talent was undeniable. As a result, Cade McNamara transferred to Iowa and looked great for them.
Everyone thought Alex Orji would start as quarterback for Michigan this year, but he didn’t impress much against Fresno State. Seeing Davis Warren as the starter in Week 1 was shocking!
There are positives for Michigan though: a solid defense with standout players like Mason Graham and Will Johnson, and offensive talents like Donovan Edwards and Colston Loveland. But coaching changes and quarterback play remain big question marks.
No surprise that Texas is favored by 7.5 points over Michigan at home ahead of their Week 2 matchup.
Texas crushed Colorado State in their opener, who are seen as better than Fresno State this season. Both teams are decent but not at Boise State or UNLV’s level.
For Michigan to win, Graham needs to disrupt Steve Sarkisian’s plans and Quinn Ewers’ game. While Ewers’ durability is doubtful, I’d still prefer an untested Arch Manning over any current Michigan quarterback.
Michigan could win this game, but they won’t dominate Texas.
We love big non-conference matchups like this one, but it might end up being disappointing.
