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Michigan vs. Notre Dame: Preview, odds, predictions, TV schedule and more

By Derek Grochowski

Notre Dame head coach Brian Kelly yells in the rain during the Citrus Bowl against LSU at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Fla., on January 1, 2018. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel/TNS via Getty Images)
Notre Dame head coach Brian Kelly yells in the rain during the Citrus Bowl against LSU at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Fla., on January 1, 2018. (Stephen M. Dowell/Orlando Sentinel/TNS via Getty Images) /
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Michigan depth chart
ANN ARBOR, MI – NOVEMBER 25: Michigan Wolverines defensive lineman Rashan Gary (3) plays defense during game action between the Ohio State Buckeyes (8) and the Michigan Wolverines on November 25, 2017 at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor, Michigan. (Photo by Scott W. Grau/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

Matchups to watch

Rashan Gary vs Liam Eichenberg

Rashan Gary is one of the top defensive line players in the entire country. It will be a tough test for Liam Eichenberg as he moves into a starting position on the offensive line. Whoever wins this battle will be a major storyline for the game. The advantage certainly goes to Rashan Gary in this matchup, he was dominant last season and will be looking to build on that for a stronger 2018 season. Eichenberg could surprise a lot of people Saturday night. Notre Dame has been producing talented offensive linemen for a long time, Eichenberg has the opportunity to be the next man up and carry that mantle.

Brandon Wimbush vs Michigan’s secondary

Brandon Wimbush will need to throw the ball for the Notre Dame offense to be successful. They cannot be a one-dimensional offense and beat the Michigan defense. That is easier said than done. A lot of the attention goes to Michigan’s front seven with Rashan Gary, Chase Winovich and Devin Bush but the secondary is also very talented collecting eleven interceptions last season. Lavert Hill will be one of the best corners in the Big Ten this season and both safeties are returning after strong 2017 seasons. A 49% completion percentage from 2017 will need to be better this year.

Shea Patterson vs. Turnovers

If there was one knock on Shea Patterson last season it was he turned the ball over a lot. In seven games last season he threw for 17 touchdowns which is great and has caused a lot of hype for Michigan fans. However, when he transferred to Ann Arbor the good also comes with the bad. In those same seven games, he also threw for nine interceptions. With the shaky offensive line, Patterson will see pressure in his face Saturday night. What will be key is keeping cool and taking care of the ball not just spraying it around the field.

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