Big Ten Power Rankings, Week 13: More than playoffs on the line in Michigan vs. Ohio State
By David Rouben
Wilton Speight may have struggled against Iowa, but Michigan learned the hard way how much he means to their offense. While the defense was great as usual, John O’Korn struggled for the entire first half. He’s only received limited looks in garbage time scenarios up to this point, but the offense still averaged 44.5 points on the year, so many thought that they’d still be okay. But they only scored three first half points and trailed despite their defense’s best effort.
He looked better in the second half, and the turning point came in the third quarter when he was able to scramble for 30 yards on a 3rd-and-8. But De’veon Smith powered them to this win, and O’Korn still finished with just 59 passing yards while completing less than half of his attempts. And despite that 30-yard run, O’Korn still somehow finished with 19 (!) rushing yards.
The poor weather conditions had to factor into that, especially since Richard Lagow also finished with a terrible statline. And even J.T. Barrett struggled with the windy conditions out in East Lansing. But there’s no doubt that Michigan needs Wilton Speight in order for their offense to function properly.
Even when their offense has struggled, their defense has remained a consistent force. Thanks to Jim Harbaugh, we have no idea if Wilton Speight is ready to go for The Game. But if they have to use O’Korn, they can rely on their defense. If Michigan State’s defensive line caused Ohio State problems, there’s no reason to think that Michigan’s can too. And Curtis Samuel may be a dynamic playmaker, but they can neutralize him if they put Jabrill Peppers on him.
If Speight is ready to go, this offense can match Ohio State’s shot for shot. But if O’Korn gets the nod, they’ll look to their defense to make it a low-scoring game. But against the Buckeyes’ explosive attack, that may prove to be untenable.