Fansided

3 reasons this Michigan team should strike fear into Ohio State

By Cody Williams

Oct 2, 2021; Madison, Wisconsin, USA; Michigan Wolverines quarterback Cade McNamara (12) throws a pass during the first quarter against the Wisconsin Badgers at Camp Randall Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 2, 2021; Madison, Wisconsin, USA; Michigan Wolverines quarterback Cade McNamara (12) throws a pass during the first quarter against the Wisconsin Badgers at Camp Randall Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports /
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Michigan Wolverines Blake Corum Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Consistent, versatile offense makes Michigan dangerous

Against inferior competition, Michigan simply dominated in the trenches and ran all over opposing teams with Blake Corum and Hassan Haskins. That was great and showed they have a talented backfield in Ann Arbor, but the big question against Wisconsin was whether or not they could A. continue that and B. show something more against a quality defense.

They answered the call in a big way and showed this offense is versatile. Even with Corum and Haskins being held to 93 yards on 34 carries, Michigan found ways to move the ball. Cade McNamara went 17-of-28 for 197 yards with two scores while true freshman J.J. McCarthy rolled up with one 56-yard touchdown pass on one attempt and a rushing score as well.

This isn’t an explosive passing offense, especially without Ronnie Bell on the field, but it’s reliable, which is more than can be said of years past. With that and the running back combo, this is an offense that finally has multiple ways it can attack opponents.

1. Ohio State isn’t the team they’ve been when dominated Michigan

Undoubtedly the biggest reason that Ohio State should be worried about a potential matchup with their most hated rivals has nothing to do with the Wolverines. Yes, Michigan looks better and more reliable than in recent years but the fact of the matter is that the Buckeyes are not the juggernaut they have been.

The biggest issues for OSU to this point have been on defense. Oregon exposed them in a big way with a strong rushing attack and offensive line performance that pushed the Buckeyes around. But the offense is less reliable as well. The talent is undeniable but the consistent dominance — with the possible exception of TreVeyon Henderson — hasn’t been there.

When Ohio State has been embarrassing Michigan in recent years, they’ve been virtually unstoppable with the ball. But this team hasn’t proven they’re capable of that, especially against a good defense. And if the Wolverines keep garnering momentum, this is all adding up to Harbaugh finally getting that elusive rivalry win.

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