3yardsandacloud
Administrator Emeritus
2005 Michigan Wolverines Game Preview
written by: BB73, Bucklion, DaddyBigBucks, daddyphatsacs,
Hubbard, Jaxbuck, LordJeffBuck, and 3yardsandacloud
written by: BB73, Bucklion, DaddyBigBucks, daddyphatsacs,
Hubbard, Jaxbuck, LordJeffBuck, and 3yardsandacloud
The hair on the back of your neck probably stands up just thinking about this week's matchup. The scarlet blood flowing through your veins begins to boil as the countdown to kickoff winds down. You avoid mentioning the color of the sky, and want to rip into anything that displays the putrid urine-and-cobalt combination.
You're getting almost nothing done at work, and that doesn't really bother you. You're posting obscenities on message boards because it helps ease the tension. You're avoiding the use of the 13th letter of the alphabet, unless it's printed on your toilet paper. You're simply a true Buckeye fan getting ready for the greatest rivalry in all of sports: The Game.
The end of the regular season is upon us. That means, just like it has for every year since the end of World War II, that this is scUM week.
Most of us are tired of hearing about how many this or that whatevers The School Up North (TSUN) has in its history. But perhaps some of you are looking for some facts to throw back into the faces of an obnoxious TSUN fan that you're forced to deal with. Here is some ammunition:
Since the major college football polls started in 1936, how many times has your team finished in the top 2? Answer: tOSU - 11, TSUN - 4.
In that same time period, how many losing seasons have you had? Answer: tOSU - 5, TSUN - 8.
But TSUN fans will say that college football history should go back even further than 1936. In that case, let's ask how many 11-win seasons have you had in the last 100 years? Answer: tOSU - 7, TSUN - 3.
Some TSUN fans may mention individual accomplishments. Buckeyes generally favor a more team-oriented approach, but let's cover the topic of individual awards. Both programs have 1 winner for each of these awards: Biletnikoff, Thorpe, and Butkus. Although if somebody wants to bet that tOSU won't have the lead in the Butkus category by year end, you should take them up on it.
Here are some awards that have never gone to a TSUN player: Guy Award for punter (1 for tOSU), Groza for placekicker (1 for tOSU), Draddy Award for Scholar-Athlete (2 for tOSU), Outland Trophy for interior lineman (4 for tOSU), Lombardi Award for best lineman (5 for tOSU).
And of course even Kinesiology majors are able to determine that 6 Heisman Trophies represent a larger number than 3 Heismans. And while we're discussing the topic of 'Major Awards', the holidays are approaching, just where is that Leg-Lamp?
Back to football. All of the cliches can be tossed around for this one, like "throw out the records", "it's a 1-game season", and so forth. But let's look back at a period when the records were something very special.
Early in the "10-Year War", which describes the Woody-vs-Bo years from 1969-1978, there was a stretch worth highlighting. From 1970 through 1975, TSUN came into The Game undefeated and ranked in the top-4 for six straight years. They came out of those 6 battles with just one victory, over a rebuilding tOSU squad in 1971.
Just imagine the frustration of not getting a win 5 out of 6 years when a national title was still possible each year. Well, since it was the '70s, that period can aptly be described as 'Good Times'.
After some frustrations in the 1990s, 'good times' apparently returned 310 days prior to The Game in 2001, when tOSU's new head coach let the crowd know that he "gets it" when it comes to the battles against TSUN. A 3-1 record for Jim Tressel in the game thus far has shown that to be the case. But Buckeye fans are greedy for more victories.
So loosen up those vocal chords, allow that mixture of bile and venom to build up in your system, and let it all out Saturday afternoon as the Buckeyes invade Ann Arbor and start slugging it out on the field with the hated enemy.
And if you're driving north to go to the game, fill up with gas before you get past Toledo, because it's no fun pushing the vehicle back over the state line if you run out of gas. And that's your only option at that point, since Woody will be watching.
You're getting almost nothing done at work, and that doesn't really bother you. You're posting obscenities on message boards because it helps ease the tension. You're avoiding the use of the 13th letter of the alphabet, unless it's printed on your toilet paper. You're simply a true Buckeye fan getting ready for the greatest rivalry in all of sports: The Game.
The end of the regular season is upon us. That means, just like it has for every year since the end of World War II, that this is scUM week.
Most of us are tired of hearing about how many this or that whatevers The School Up North (TSUN) has in its history. But perhaps some of you are looking for some facts to throw back into the faces of an obnoxious TSUN fan that you're forced to deal with. Here is some ammunition:
Since the major college football polls started in 1936, how many times has your team finished in the top 2? Answer: tOSU - 11, TSUN - 4.
In that same time period, how many losing seasons have you had? Answer: tOSU - 5, TSUN - 8.
But TSUN fans will say that college football history should go back even further than 1936. In that case, let's ask how many 11-win seasons have you had in the last 100 years? Answer: tOSU - 7, TSUN - 3.
Some TSUN fans may mention individual accomplishments. Buckeyes generally favor a more team-oriented approach, but let's cover the topic of individual awards. Both programs have 1 winner for each of these awards: Biletnikoff, Thorpe, and Butkus. Although if somebody wants to bet that tOSU won't have the lead in the Butkus category by year end, you should take them up on it.
Here are some awards that have never gone to a TSUN player: Guy Award for punter (1 for tOSU), Groza for placekicker (1 for tOSU), Draddy Award for Scholar-Athlete (2 for tOSU), Outland Trophy for interior lineman (4 for tOSU), Lombardi Award for best lineman (5 for tOSU).
And of course even Kinesiology majors are able to determine that 6 Heisman Trophies represent a larger number than 3 Heismans. And while we're discussing the topic of 'Major Awards', the holidays are approaching, just where is that Leg-Lamp?
Back to football. All of the cliches can be tossed around for this one, like "throw out the records", "it's a 1-game season", and so forth. But let's look back at a period when the records were something very special.
Early in the "10-Year War", which describes the Woody-vs-Bo years from 1969-1978, there was a stretch worth highlighting. From 1970 through 1975, TSUN came into The Game undefeated and ranked in the top-4 for six straight years. They came out of those 6 battles with just one victory, over a rebuilding tOSU squad in 1971.
Just imagine the frustration of not getting a win 5 out of 6 years when a national title was still possible each year. Well, since it was the '70s, that period can aptly be described as 'Good Times'.
After some frustrations in the 1990s, 'good times' apparently returned 310 days prior to The Game in 2001, when tOSU's new head coach let the crowd know that he "gets it" when it comes to the battles against TSUN. A 3-1 record for Jim Tressel in the game thus far has shown that to be the case. But Buckeye fans are greedy for more victories.
So loosen up those vocal chords, allow that mixture of bile and venom to build up in your system, and let it all out Saturday afternoon as the Buckeyes invade Ann Arbor and start slugging it out on the field with the hated enemy.
And if you're driving north to go to the game, fill up with gas before you get past Toledo, because it's no fun pushing the vehicle back over the state line if you run out of gas. And that's your only option at that point, since Woody will be watching.
Date and Time
Game time: Saturday, November 19th, 2005
1:00 EDT Kick-off at Michigan Stadium (Ann Arbor, MI)
ABC will cover the game.
1:00 EDT Kick-off at Michigan Stadium (Ann Arbor, MI)
ABC will cover the game.
2005 Michigan Wolverines Offensive Preview
Returning starters: 8
So is there a game this week??? Oh yeah, that tiny affair with, let’s see now, of course, the Wolverines! Yes, the Buckeyes travel to Ann Arbor this weekend, for the annual end-of–the season clash with Michigan. Last season, the Wolverines used freshmen at both QB and TB for most of the season, and the results were good, for the most part. The offense averaged 386.5 yards per contest, good for a national ranking of 46th. Within that, the passing game (232.9 yards, 45th) and rushing game (153.6 ypg, 61st) were both solid, if unspectacular. Perhaps most telling, though, were two very favorable numbers: the offense scored 30.8 points per game, ranking 24th, and their turnover margin of +6 was 25th. After scoring a bunch of points in the loss to Texas in the Rose Bowl, the team seemed poised for a huge 2005 offensively.
However, in 2005, the Wolverine offense has been inconsistent, and at times not very good, but they have come on of late, after essentially saving their season with their final play victory over Penn State. Michigan has been hovering around the 50th ranking nationally in total offense, averaging about 400 yards per contest, so those numbers are about the same as last year. Within that, they’re averaging around 175 yards rushing per contest, but the ground game has clearly been better when tailback Mike Hart has been able to play. The passing numbers have been a real disappointment for Michigan fans, averaging about 220 yards per game, which is only in the 60-70th range nationally, and actually a downgrade from last season. The offense has scored about 28 points a game, good for a middle-of-the-pack ranking of around 50. All in all, they haven’t been a terrible offense by any stretch, but considering the expectations at the beginning of the year, this unit has collectively been a relative disappointment, but they have one more game in which to shine ... against a very tough and determined Buckeye defense. One final note: this preview was written before the Indiana game was completed.
Quarterbacks
QB #7 Chad Henne (6-2, 225, SO)
Henne has been an intriguing player to watch this year. After a monster freshmen season, in which he completed over 60% of his passes, for 2743 yards and 25 TDs, the Wolverines believed that he would be one of the nation’s elite QBs this season. At times, like the final drive against Penn State, he has looked the part. But at other times, such as much of the Minnesota game, he has looked lost, and he has been unable to consistently find targets to replace the production the team got from Braylon Edwards last season. This year, Henne has thrown for 1859 yards through 9 games (not counting Indiana), and completed about 57% of his throws. His TD production is still pretty good (16) and his INT number is not terribly high (7) through that point. He has been sacked 15 times, which is not an unusually high number. His highest production through the first 9 games was 258 yards against Wisconsin. After bottoming out against Minnesota, where he threw for only 155 yards on less than 50% completions and no TDs, he has bounced back nicely, cracking the 200 yard mark twice and tossing a pair of TDs against Penn State, including the game-winner, and against Iowa. His performance against Northwestern was a bit of a back-step, throwing for only 174 yards and 3 INTs. Basically, it has been an up-and-down year for Henne, some of which is his fault, and some is due to injuries in the running game and lack of consistency in the receiving corps. Henne is zero threat to run, having netted -8 yards this season.
Junior Matt Gutierrez, who was once expected to be the starting QB last season, is the backup. He’s been limited to mop-up duty against Northern Illinois and Eastern Michigan, and has not accumulated stats in the Big Ten season so far, so it’s clearly Henne all the way, barring a serious injury.
QB Rating: C+
Head-to-Head: Chad Henne versus Troy Smith
Henne hasn’t quite been able to match the production from last season, and Smith is coming on strong at the end of the year. He had his break-out performance against the Wolverines last year, and he looks poised and focused on repeating that in 2005. If Henne is on, he can be dangerous, but given the way Smith has played the past month and the dual threat he presents, the edge here goes to Troy.
Edge: Troy Smith
Running Backs
RB #20 Mike Hart (5-9, 199, SO)
FB #92 William Paul (6-3, 264, SO)
Unlike Henne, Hart has looked every bit as good as expected when he has been healthy, but injuries have hampered him throughout the season, and he had just 573 yards and 4 TDs going into the Indiana contest. Hart only had 3 carries in the Notre Dame game and then missed the next 2 games. Upon his return, he detonated for 218 yards and a TD against Michigan State, and followed that up with back-to-back 100-yard performances against Penn State and Minnesota. He was hurt again in the Iowa game, and missed the Northwestern contest, but was expected to play in the Indiana game. Hart is a tough, powerful runner with good speed and good hands to catch the ball, though he has only 12 receptions so far this year. When he is in there, this is a much better offense, and he gives Henne more time to throw because the defenses must respect his presence.
All of that is not an insult to freshman Kevin Grady, a power runner who is second on the depth chart and has filled in admirably when Hart has been hurt. He came in to gain 79 yards against Notre Dame, and has been used consistently since then, though his production was up in recent weeks because of the injury to Hart. He had 18 carries against Iowa and 20 against Northwestern, and though his yards-per-carry is only 3.8, he has scored twice and gained 361 yards as he continues to learn the college game. He looks to be a player with good upside.
Third on the chart is sophomore Max Martin. He has gained 217 yards and scored twice, though he hasn’t played much since the Wisconsin game. Junior Jerome Jackson is listed as fourth on the chart, but scored against Iowa and gained 105 yards on 24 carries against Northwestern, so it will be interesting to see how he fits in to the mix on Saturday.
Fullback Paul is a frightening sight coming out of the backfield with a full head of steam. He has no carries or catches, so he’s a blocker ... period. Backup Brian Thompson has caught 2 TD passes, so he can be used in specific situations.
Injuries keep the rating for this unit from being higher, but don’t be fooled: Mike Hart will be a handful for any defense, including the Buckeyes.
RB Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Hart versus Pittman
Talent-wise, these two are about even, as both bring a lot to the table and have been instrumental in their team’s successes this season. Pittman has of course been more consistent because of the injuries to Hart, so he gets the nod, but if Hart is healthy, he will be a big weapon for Michigan.
Edge: Pittman
Wide Receivers
WR #8 Jason Avant (6-1, 213, SR)
WR #86 Mario Manningham (6-1, 185, FR)
Without trying to be too critical, it is difficult to say that this has not been one of the most disappointing units this year, and lack of consistency at this position has caused Michigan some problems this season. The unquestioned leader has been Avant, who at times has seemed like Michigan’s one-trick pony at wideout. He’s caught 65 passes, and no other receiver has more than 17. Those 65 receptions have netted him 834 yards and 6 TDs. His good size and speed makes him the toughest Wolverine to cover by far. He’s also been very consistent and reliable during Big Ten play, catching at least 6 passes for at least 70 yards in every game except Northwestern, where he caught 5 for 67 yards. 3 of his TDs have also come in conference play. The emergence of Manningham has made this offense better, but he needs to see the ball more if he’s going to be a consistent weapon. He caught 2 TDs against Penn State in the most critical game of the year for the Wolverines, but has caught just 1 pass in the last 2 games, though he had 3 rushes against Northwestern.
The biggest disappointment has probably been Steve Breaston, a junior who was supposed to pick up a good deal of the slack left behind by Edwards. He has caught only 15 passes for 184 yards and a TD. He hasn’t caught more than 3 passes in a single game this season. Junior Carl Tabb (12 catches, 96 yards), and freshmen Antonio Bass and Doug Dutch Jr. (3 catches, 18 yards) round out the depth chart. Bottom line: the rating for Avant is much higher than for any of the other players.
WR Rating: B-
Head-to-Head: Avant/Manningham versus Holmes/Ginn/Gonzalez
Both units have players that can run a good route, generate explosive speed, and make a tough catch, but overall, the Buckeye players are better. Avant can play with the Buckeye receivers ... the jury is out on the rest.
Edge: Holmes/Ginn/Gonzalez
Tight Ends
#88 Tim Massaquoi (6-4, 248, SR)
Massaquoi is a veteran player that is a very good blocker, and he can also go downfield and take advantage of a mismatch once in a while (8 catches, 56 yards). Really, junior Tyler Ecker should also be listed as a starter, as he is also a bruising blocker (6-6, 251) and has been very active in the passing game also (17 catches, 196 yards). Throw in a couple of promising freshmen, and this is one of the better and deeper units in the country.
TE Rating: A
Head-to-Head: Michigan versus Ohio State
The Wolverines have a dangerous stable of tight ends who do a lot of things well. The Buckeyes also have several players who can play the position effectively, but they are not at the level of the Wolverines.
Edge: Michigan
Offensive Line
LT #79 Adam Stenavich (6-5, 317, SR)
LG #65 Leo Henige (6-4, 339, SR)
C #67 Adam Kraus (6-6, 311, SO)
RG #67 Matt Lentz (6-6, 305, SR)
RT #77 Jake Long (6-7, 338, SO)
As usual, this unit is mean, huge, physical, and talented. The three seniors really lead the way, including mammoth guard Leo Henige. The sophomores, including gargantuan tackle Long, have also stepped up in a big way. This team has not racked up a large number of yards, so the play of the line, controlling the trenches, has been pivotal to their ability to win games. Though the talent might not be quite as top-flight as in years past, the size, strength, and attitude are just as good, making this unit just as dangerous. The right side of this line is particularly dangerous in the running game, so watch for Hart to go that way a lot on Saturday.
Tackle depth comes from junior Reuben Riley, and Jeremy Ciulla backs up the guard positions. Mark Bihl can play center.
OL Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Michigan versus Ohio State
This one is always hard to gauge, and it will take the results of the game to really know which line is better. Both lines have a lot of size and a lot of experience. The Buckeye offense has played well of late, and the Wolverine line has been good when it counted recently, putting games away in the fourth quarter. This will be a fun match up to watch.
Edge: Push
Offensive Analysis
Looking at this unit, there is certainly plenty of talent, and several marquis names, including Henne, Avant, and Hart. Yet the production hasn’t been consistent, and it has cost the Wolverines a couple of games this season, and the injuries haven’t helped, either. When they are playing well, this unit can do some serious damage. Yet if Hart gets hurt, and Avant gets covered, it could also be a long day for the Wolverines. Gone are the days of Braylon Edwards to bail them out, and each player s going to have to step up if they are going to beat the Buckeyes Saturday. They should come in with a decent amount of confidence, with revenge on their minds from last year, and with a lot of emotion playing in front of the home crowd. Will that translate into production? Time will tell ... don’t miss it.
Overall Offensive Rating: B-
So is there a game this week??? Oh yeah, that tiny affair with, let’s see now, of course, the Wolverines! Yes, the Buckeyes travel to Ann Arbor this weekend, for the annual end-of–the season clash with Michigan. Last season, the Wolverines used freshmen at both QB and TB for most of the season, and the results were good, for the most part. The offense averaged 386.5 yards per contest, good for a national ranking of 46th. Within that, the passing game (232.9 yards, 45th) and rushing game (153.6 ypg, 61st) were both solid, if unspectacular. Perhaps most telling, though, were two very favorable numbers: the offense scored 30.8 points per game, ranking 24th, and their turnover margin of +6 was 25th. After scoring a bunch of points in the loss to Texas in the Rose Bowl, the team seemed poised for a huge 2005 offensively.
However, in 2005, the Wolverine offense has been inconsistent, and at times not very good, but they have come on of late, after essentially saving their season with their final play victory over Penn State. Michigan has been hovering around the 50th ranking nationally in total offense, averaging about 400 yards per contest, so those numbers are about the same as last year. Within that, they’re averaging around 175 yards rushing per contest, but the ground game has clearly been better when tailback Mike Hart has been able to play. The passing numbers have been a real disappointment for Michigan fans, averaging about 220 yards per game, which is only in the 60-70th range nationally, and actually a downgrade from last season. The offense has scored about 28 points a game, good for a middle-of-the-pack ranking of around 50. All in all, they haven’t been a terrible offense by any stretch, but considering the expectations at the beginning of the year, this unit has collectively been a relative disappointment, but they have one more game in which to shine ... against a very tough and determined Buckeye defense. One final note: this preview was written before the Indiana game was completed.
Quarterbacks
QB #7 Chad Henne (6-2, 225, SO)
Henne has been an intriguing player to watch this year. After a monster freshmen season, in which he completed over 60% of his passes, for 2743 yards and 25 TDs, the Wolverines believed that he would be one of the nation’s elite QBs this season. At times, like the final drive against Penn State, he has looked the part. But at other times, such as much of the Minnesota game, he has looked lost, and he has been unable to consistently find targets to replace the production the team got from Braylon Edwards last season. This year, Henne has thrown for 1859 yards through 9 games (not counting Indiana), and completed about 57% of his throws. His TD production is still pretty good (16) and his INT number is not terribly high (7) through that point. He has been sacked 15 times, which is not an unusually high number. His highest production through the first 9 games was 258 yards against Wisconsin. After bottoming out against Minnesota, where he threw for only 155 yards on less than 50% completions and no TDs, he has bounced back nicely, cracking the 200 yard mark twice and tossing a pair of TDs against Penn State, including the game-winner, and against Iowa. His performance against Northwestern was a bit of a back-step, throwing for only 174 yards and 3 INTs. Basically, it has been an up-and-down year for Henne, some of which is his fault, and some is due to injuries in the running game and lack of consistency in the receiving corps. Henne is zero threat to run, having netted -8 yards this season.
Junior Matt Gutierrez, who was once expected to be the starting QB last season, is the backup. He’s been limited to mop-up duty against Northern Illinois and Eastern Michigan, and has not accumulated stats in the Big Ten season so far, so it’s clearly Henne all the way, barring a serious injury.
QB Rating: C+
Head-to-Head: Chad Henne versus Troy Smith
Henne hasn’t quite been able to match the production from last season, and Smith is coming on strong at the end of the year. He had his break-out performance against the Wolverines last year, and he looks poised and focused on repeating that in 2005. If Henne is on, he can be dangerous, but given the way Smith has played the past month and the dual threat he presents, the edge here goes to Troy.
Edge: Troy Smith
Running Backs
RB #20 Mike Hart (5-9, 199, SO)
FB #92 William Paul (6-3, 264, SO)
Unlike Henne, Hart has looked every bit as good as expected when he has been healthy, but injuries have hampered him throughout the season, and he had just 573 yards and 4 TDs going into the Indiana contest. Hart only had 3 carries in the Notre Dame game and then missed the next 2 games. Upon his return, he detonated for 218 yards and a TD against Michigan State, and followed that up with back-to-back 100-yard performances against Penn State and Minnesota. He was hurt again in the Iowa game, and missed the Northwestern contest, but was expected to play in the Indiana game. Hart is a tough, powerful runner with good speed and good hands to catch the ball, though he has only 12 receptions so far this year. When he is in there, this is a much better offense, and he gives Henne more time to throw because the defenses must respect his presence.
All of that is not an insult to freshman Kevin Grady, a power runner who is second on the depth chart and has filled in admirably when Hart has been hurt. He came in to gain 79 yards against Notre Dame, and has been used consistently since then, though his production was up in recent weeks because of the injury to Hart. He had 18 carries against Iowa and 20 against Northwestern, and though his yards-per-carry is only 3.8, he has scored twice and gained 361 yards as he continues to learn the college game. He looks to be a player with good upside.
Third on the chart is sophomore Max Martin. He has gained 217 yards and scored twice, though he hasn’t played much since the Wisconsin game. Junior Jerome Jackson is listed as fourth on the chart, but scored against Iowa and gained 105 yards on 24 carries against Northwestern, so it will be interesting to see how he fits in to the mix on Saturday.
Fullback Paul is a frightening sight coming out of the backfield with a full head of steam. He has no carries or catches, so he’s a blocker ... period. Backup Brian Thompson has caught 2 TD passes, so he can be used in specific situations.
Injuries keep the rating for this unit from being higher, but don’t be fooled: Mike Hart will be a handful for any defense, including the Buckeyes.
RB Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Hart versus Pittman
Talent-wise, these two are about even, as both bring a lot to the table and have been instrumental in their team’s successes this season. Pittman has of course been more consistent because of the injuries to Hart, so he gets the nod, but if Hart is healthy, he will be a big weapon for Michigan.
Edge: Pittman
Wide Receivers
WR #8 Jason Avant (6-1, 213, SR)
WR #86 Mario Manningham (6-1, 185, FR)
Without trying to be too critical, it is difficult to say that this has not been one of the most disappointing units this year, and lack of consistency at this position has caused Michigan some problems this season. The unquestioned leader has been Avant, who at times has seemed like Michigan’s one-trick pony at wideout. He’s caught 65 passes, and no other receiver has more than 17. Those 65 receptions have netted him 834 yards and 6 TDs. His good size and speed makes him the toughest Wolverine to cover by far. He’s also been very consistent and reliable during Big Ten play, catching at least 6 passes for at least 70 yards in every game except Northwestern, where he caught 5 for 67 yards. 3 of his TDs have also come in conference play. The emergence of Manningham has made this offense better, but he needs to see the ball more if he’s going to be a consistent weapon. He caught 2 TDs against Penn State in the most critical game of the year for the Wolverines, but has caught just 1 pass in the last 2 games, though he had 3 rushes against Northwestern.
The biggest disappointment has probably been Steve Breaston, a junior who was supposed to pick up a good deal of the slack left behind by Edwards. He has caught only 15 passes for 184 yards and a TD. He hasn’t caught more than 3 passes in a single game this season. Junior Carl Tabb (12 catches, 96 yards), and freshmen Antonio Bass and Doug Dutch Jr. (3 catches, 18 yards) round out the depth chart. Bottom line: the rating for Avant is much higher than for any of the other players.
WR Rating: B-
Head-to-Head: Avant/Manningham versus Holmes/Ginn/Gonzalez
Both units have players that can run a good route, generate explosive speed, and make a tough catch, but overall, the Buckeye players are better. Avant can play with the Buckeye receivers ... the jury is out on the rest.
Edge: Holmes/Ginn/Gonzalez
Tight Ends
#88 Tim Massaquoi (6-4, 248, SR)
Massaquoi is a veteran player that is a very good blocker, and he can also go downfield and take advantage of a mismatch once in a while (8 catches, 56 yards). Really, junior Tyler Ecker should also be listed as a starter, as he is also a bruising blocker (6-6, 251) and has been very active in the passing game also (17 catches, 196 yards). Throw in a couple of promising freshmen, and this is one of the better and deeper units in the country.
TE Rating: A
Head-to-Head: Michigan versus Ohio State
The Wolverines have a dangerous stable of tight ends who do a lot of things well. The Buckeyes also have several players who can play the position effectively, but they are not at the level of the Wolverines.
Edge: Michigan
Offensive Line
LT #79 Adam Stenavich (6-5, 317, SR)
LG #65 Leo Henige (6-4, 339, SR)
C #67 Adam Kraus (6-6, 311, SO)
RG #67 Matt Lentz (6-6, 305, SR)
RT #77 Jake Long (6-7, 338, SO)
As usual, this unit is mean, huge, physical, and talented. The three seniors really lead the way, including mammoth guard Leo Henige. The sophomores, including gargantuan tackle Long, have also stepped up in a big way. This team has not racked up a large number of yards, so the play of the line, controlling the trenches, has been pivotal to their ability to win games. Though the talent might not be quite as top-flight as in years past, the size, strength, and attitude are just as good, making this unit just as dangerous. The right side of this line is particularly dangerous in the running game, so watch for Hart to go that way a lot on Saturday.
Tackle depth comes from junior Reuben Riley, and Jeremy Ciulla backs up the guard positions. Mark Bihl can play center.
OL Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Michigan versus Ohio State
This one is always hard to gauge, and it will take the results of the game to really know which line is better. Both lines have a lot of size and a lot of experience. The Buckeye offense has played well of late, and the Wolverine line has been good when it counted recently, putting games away in the fourth quarter. This will be a fun match up to watch.
Edge: Push
Offensive Analysis
Looking at this unit, there is certainly plenty of talent, and several marquis names, including Henne, Avant, and Hart. Yet the production hasn’t been consistent, and it has cost the Wolverines a couple of games this season, and the injuries haven’t helped, either. When they are playing well, this unit can do some serious damage. Yet if Hart gets hurt, and Avant gets covered, it could also be a long day for the Wolverines. Gone are the days of Braylon Edwards to bail them out, and each player s going to have to step up if they are going to beat the Buckeyes Saturday. They should come in with a decent amount of confidence, with revenge on their minds from last year, and with a lot of emotion playing in front of the home crowd. Will that translate into production? Time will tell ... don’t miss it.
Overall Offensive Rating: B-
2005 Michigan Wolverines Defensive Preview
Returning Starters: 7
It’s that time of year once again folks. This is the game that makes college football so special in the Midwest, and even nationally. A storied rivalry between two of the most tradition rich programs in all of college sports, one that has become legendary in the land of college football. The team up north, or so us Buckeye faithful like to call them, come into the season finale with a head of steam. Winners of their last 4, including an instant classic over then undefeated Penn St. This Michigan team has found ways to win some close ballgames this season, and have been very good defensively. Ohio State is one game away from at least a share of a Big Ten title, 60 minutes in Ann Arbor will determine if this season will be a special one, or one that will be looked back upon as “what could have been”. Below is where Michigan stands defensively from a conference, and national standpoint.
Points per contest: 19 (4th in Big Ten, 18th Nationally)
Total yards surrendered: 341 YPG (3rd in Big Ten, 36th Nationally)
Total Passing yards surrendered: 203 (2nd in Big Ten, 48th Nationally)
Total Rushing yards surrendered: 138 (4th in Big Ten, 40th Nationally)
Defensive sacks: 18 (6th in Big Ten, 68th Nationally)
Interceptions: 10 (5th in Big Ten, 54th Nationally)
Red Zone Defense: Michigan is giving up points 84% of the time that their opponents have reached the 20 yard line, which is 9th in the Big Ten. They have had an opponent reach their red zone 31 times this season, 14 of those trips resulted in a touchdown, and 12 in a successful field goal attempt.
* Indicates number of times that player has lettered
Defensive Line
NT #78 Gabe Watson*** (6-4 331 SR)
DE #94 Pat Massey*** (6-8 283 5th SR)
DT #80 Alan Branch* (6-6 311 SO)
Michigan features a very active defensive line that is loaded with size, and athleticism. Leading the way for the Wolverines is senior All American candidate Gabe Watson. Watson has a total of 35 tackles on the season, including 7 tackles for loss, and 3 sacks. Watson, a first team All Big Ten pick a year ago, and a 2005 Lombardi candidate, is a surefire first day pick in next year’s NFL draft. He has excellent quickness for his size, and is very powerful. Watson has the ability to really make things difficult for an opposing offensive line. His match up with Mangold really bears watching, and will be pivotal for the team that wants to control the line of scrimmage in this contest.
The other interior lineman for the team up north will be sophomore Alan Branch. On the season Branch has a total of 19 tackles, including 4 for a loss, and 2 sacks. In addition, Branch has also been credited with 3 QB hurries, and a forced fumble. Branch is another big body in the middle, and is very tall which should help OSU’s line get leverage in short yardage situations.
The final spot along the front 3 will be senior co-captain Pat Massey. Massey has a total of 25 tackles on the season, including 1 for a loss, and a sack. He has also broken up 2 passes and forced a fumble this season. Massey is another very tall frame on this line, it should be interesting to see if he can get his mitt on any of Troy Smith’s passes (keep in mind that Smith isn’t that tall for a college QB). Massey, and honorable mention All Big Ten pick a year ago, is the leader along this front 4. This is his 5th year with the Michigan program and he has only been a part of 1 victory over OSU, if this game is close you have to wonder what mental effect that could have over Massey.
Analysis
Michigan is very solid along the front 3, they have 2 seasoned veterans who have seen a lot of ballgames in their career. They are not as dominant as the Texas defensive line, or probably even Penn St. for that matter, but they still garner respect. Look for the Buckeyes to run shotgun options with Smith quite a bit this week, and also for the Buckeyes to get Smith out of the pocket against this line. These guys are big, but their size hinders their range, which is something that has made them vulnerable to mobile QB’s in the past. It starts up front, and I like the way the Buckeyes match up against this front 3.
DL Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Michigan versus Ohio State
This is actually one of the better match ups in the head to head this season for the Buckeyes. Watson probably gets a slight nod over Pitcock when you match them up head to head. Kudla gets the nod over Massey, and I’d take Patterson over Branch any day of the week. A couple of things stick out to me about this Michigan defensive line. The first thing is their lack of pressure on the QB, they only have 18 sacks on the season, which leads me to believe that these guys aren’t very disruptive. OSU has 20 more sacks than this Wolverine unit on the season, a remarkable stat in my opinion. The second thing is Michigan’s vulnerability to the run. They are ranked 4th in the conference, but do tend to get run on from time to time, something that doesn’t happen against this OSU front 4.
Edge: Ohio State
Linebackers
OLB #6 Prescott Burgess** (6-3 243 JR)
ILB #45 Dave Harris (6-2 251 SR)
ILB #37 Chris Graham* (5-11 224 SO)
RLB #99 Pierre Woods*** (6-5 249 5th SR)
Or
RLB #56 Lamarr Woodley*** (6-2 274 JR)
Leading the way at linebacker for Michigan will be junior Lamarr Woodley. Well, typically Woodley would be classified as a defensive end, but in their system Woodley is considered rush linebacker. Regardless of affiliation he has been very dominant when he hasn’t been injured this season. He has a total of 41 tackles on the season, and leads the team with 14 tackles for loss and 5 sacks. In addition, he has forced 2 fumbles and recovered another this season. Woodley has come up big in the big games this season for the Wolverines. Against Penn St. he had 4 tackles for a loss and a sack, against Notre Dame he had 2 TFL’s and a sack. Woodley, a 2nd team All Big Ten pick a year ago, has the ability to change an offensive game plan, and will have to be contained if they Buckeyes want to throw the ball this week. Filling in for Woodley in case he can’t go the whole game will be Cleveland Glenville native Pierre Woods. On the season Woods has a total of 18 tackles, including 8 for a loss and 2 sacks. Woods has also forced a fumble, and been credited with a QB hurry this season.
Getting the nod at the other outside linebacker spot will be junior Prescott Burgess. Burgess, an OSU fan favorite
, has a total of 67 tackles on the season, including 4 for a loss and a sack. Burgess has also broken up 4 passes, picked off another, and forced 2 fumbles this season. Burgess has really come on late this season. He registered a career high 11 tackles, 1 TFL and a sack against Iowa two weeks ago.
Getting the nod at one of the inside linebacker spots will be senior Dave Harris. On the season Harris is tied for the team lead with 72 tackles. In addition Harris has also registered 5 tackles for a loss, 2 forced fumbles, and a fumble recovery. Harris was named the ABC player of the week for his performance in the loss against Minnesota this season where he registered 18 tackles, which was a team high dating back to the 1988 Hall of fame bowl.
The other inside linebacker spot will be manned by sophomore Chris Graham. On the season Graham has a total of 40 tackles, including 3 for a loss. In addition he has also broken up a pass, and forced a fumble. Graham is probably the weak link on this Michigan linebacker corps. He has great speed, but is undersized, and tends to get lost in the shuffle when teams run on the Wolverines. He will need a big game against the Buckeyes this week if they are to win this game.
Analysis
This is yet another strong unit for the Wolverines. The return of Woodley to the lineup has really given this defense a shot in the arm. He has the ability to really take over a game when he is on, and is someone that the Buckeyes absolutely must contain this weekend. On the other end you have rapidly improving Prescott Burgess, someone that seems to really be beginning to live up to the hype that surrounded him out of high school. Both of these Michigan outside backers are great athletes, and Burgess is someone who is also solid against the pass, which gives them great versatility and allows them to mix their blitzes. On the inside you have two steady MLB’s who will never take over a game, but never will lose games for you either. All in all this is a very solid unit, one that will probably hold the key to this ballgame. If the Buckeyes can contain Woodley, and get big bodies on these LB’s expect them to run well this weekend.
LB Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Michigan versus Ohio State
There comes a point in the season where you have to declare a linebacker unit the best in the country, this is that week. A.J. Hawk is one of the best to come through in a very, very long time. Michigan does not have anyone that can absolutely dominate like A.J. has this season. The Wolverine unit is good, but they are no Buckeye unit, that’s for damn sure.
Edge: Ohio State
Secondary
CB #29 Leon Hall** (5-11 194 JR)
FS #19 Willis Barringer** (6-0 207 SR)
SS #31 Brandent Englemon* (5-11 202 JR)
CB #13 Grant Mason* (6-0 192 5th SR)
Michigan features a secondary that has been very effective against the pass this season. Leading the way is junior All Big Ten candidate Leon Hall. On the season Hall has a total of 50 tackles, including 3 for a loss, and 2 sacks. Hall is also tied for the team lead with 2 interceptions, and 7 pass breakups. He also forced and recovered a fumble this season. Hall is clearly the best player in this Michigan secondary, he has excellent speed, and is solid in run support. The true question is if he will be made lunch meat of by Santonio Holmes in the same fashion that Marlon Jackson was last season. That should be an interesting match up in the secondary, and will be key to Michigan slowing the Buckeyes down.
The other cornerback for the Wolverines will be senior Grant Mason. On the season Mason is tied for the team high with 72 tackles, which is an astronomical amount for a corner. Mason has also made two tackles for a loss, and is tied for the team lead with 2 sacks. In addition, Mason has also broken up 7 passes this season, which is also tied for the team high.
Leading the way at strong safety for the Wolverines will be junior Brandent Englemon. On the season Englemon has a total of 36 tackles, including 2 for a loss, and 2 sacks. Englemon also leads the team with 2 forced fumbles. Englemon has been hampered with a few nagging injuries this season, which has caused him to miss time against Penn St, Minnesota, and Iowa. Look for OSU to go after him early to see how well his groin is actually holding up.
The free safety spot for Michigan will be held down by senior Willis Barringer. On the season Barringer has a total of 30 tackles, and 2 interceptions. Barringer has also broken up 3 passes, and forced a fumble this season. Barringer suffered an injury earlier in the season which caused him to miss the Penn St, and Iowa game. He returned to the starting lineup last weekend against Indiana and will get the nod over freshman Brandon Harrison this weekend once again. Barringer has the ability to make big plays when he is in the game, he had 2 interceptions in the first half against Michigan St. earlier this season. Time will tell if he is 100%, but the Wolverine staff has to love having their senior back in such a big ballgame.
Analysis
One thing that seems to be a given every season is Michigan’s solid play in the secondary. These guys have been very good against the pass all season long, and all can tackle very well. Hall brings big play ability into this secondary, which is something that the Wolverines will need this weekend against the Buckeyes. Time will tell if Smith will be able to eat these guys up once again with his feet, which is something that the Michigan secondary has been vulnerable to in the past. Look for Ohio State to work on Englemon and Barringer at the safety spots, both have been dinged up, and may not be at 100%. If there is one thing that can burn this Michigan secondary it is their over aggressiveness against the run, look for Ohio St. to hit them with play action quite a bit also.
DB Rating: A-
Head-to-Head: Michigan versus Ohio State
Both teams are very aggressive in the secondary, and are not afraid to come up and stick someone. In addition, they are both very good at tackling a receiver right after the catch. There really aren’t a whole lot of differences between the two units, but I’ll give the final nod to the leader in stats ... which is Ohio State, by 4 yards.
Edge: Barely Ohio State
Overall Defensive Analysis
This Michigan unit is one of the better squads that the Buckeyes will face offensively this season. What the Wolverines will discover is that this is not the same OSU offense that they have faced in the past. The Buckeyes have found their run game this year, and Pittman is their guy. The Buckeyes have also have a pair of very lethal receivers who have the ability to take over a game, and a unit as a whole that should give this Wolverine secondary fits. When push comes to shove this week it will come down to two things ... mental toughness, and execution. When you come into in a big rivalry game, the stats get thrown out. In this rivalry it comes down to what team wants to line up and kick the shit out of the other one, screw the finesse pansy B.S. This is the game that makes legends in the storied programs of Ohio State and Michigan. Who will be the next one to emerge? We’ll find out Saturday ...
Overall Defensive Rating: A-
It’s that time of year once again folks. This is the game that makes college football so special in the Midwest, and even nationally. A storied rivalry between two of the most tradition rich programs in all of college sports, one that has become legendary in the land of college football. The team up north, or so us Buckeye faithful like to call them, come into the season finale with a head of steam. Winners of their last 4, including an instant classic over then undefeated Penn St. This Michigan team has found ways to win some close ballgames this season, and have been very good defensively. Ohio State is one game away from at least a share of a Big Ten title, 60 minutes in Ann Arbor will determine if this season will be a special one, or one that will be looked back upon as “what could have been”. Below is where Michigan stands defensively from a conference, and national standpoint.
Points per contest: 19 (4th in Big Ten, 18th Nationally)
Total yards surrendered: 341 YPG (3rd in Big Ten, 36th Nationally)
Total Passing yards surrendered: 203 (2nd in Big Ten, 48th Nationally)
Total Rushing yards surrendered: 138 (4th in Big Ten, 40th Nationally)
Defensive sacks: 18 (6th in Big Ten, 68th Nationally)
Interceptions: 10 (5th in Big Ten, 54th Nationally)
Red Zone Defense: Michigan is giving up points 84% of the time that their opponents have reached the 20 yard line, which is 9th in the Big Ten. They have had an opponent reach their red zone 31 times this season, 14 of those trips resulted in a touchdown, and 12 in a successful field goal attempt.
* Indicates number of times that player has lettered
Defensive Line
NT #78 Gabe Watson*** (6-4 331 SR)
DE #94 Pat Massey*** (6-8 283 5th SR)
DT #80 Alan Branch* (6-6 311 SO)
Michigan features a very active defensive line that is loaded with size, and athleticism. Leading the way for the Wolverines is senior All American candidate Gabe Watson. Watson has a total of 35 tackles on the season, including 7 tackles for loss, and 3 sacks. Watson, a first team All Big Ten pick a year ago, and a 2005 Lombardi candidate, is a surefire first day pick in next year’s NFL draft. He has excellent quickness for his size, and is very powerful. Watson has the ability to really make things difficult for an opposing offensive line. His match up with Mangold really bears watching, and will be pivotal for the team that wants to control the line of scrimmage in this contest.
The other interior lineman for the team up north will be sophomore Alan Branch. On the season Branch has a total of 19 tackles, including 4 for a loss, and 2 sacks. In addition, Branch has also been credited with 3 QB hurries, and a forced fumble. Branch is another big body in the middle, and is very tall which should help OSU’s line get leverage in short yardage situations.
The final spot along the front 3 will be senior co-captain Pat Massey. Massey has a total of 25 tackles on the season, including 1 for a loss, and a sack. He has also broken up 2 passes and forced a fumble this season. Massey is another very tall frame on this line, it should be interesting to see if he can get his mitt on any of Troy Smith’s passes (keep in mind that Smith isn’t that tall for a college QB). Massey, and honorable mention All Big Ten pick a year ago, is the leader along this front 4. This is his 5th year with the Michigan program and he has only been a part of 1 victory over OSU, if this game is close you have to wonder what mental effect that could have over Massey.
Analysis
Michigan is very solid along the front 3, they have 2 seasoned veterans who have seen a lot of ballgames in their career. They are not as dominant as the Texas defensive line, or probably even Penn St. for that matter, but they still garner respect. Look for the Buckeyes to run shotgun options with Smith quite a bit this week, and also for the Buckeyes to get Smith out of the pocket against this line. These guys are big, but their size hinders their range, which is something that has made them vulnerable to mobile QB’s in the past. It starts up front, and I like the way the Buckeyes match up against this front 3.
DL Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Michigan versus Ohio State
This is actually one of the better match ups in the head to head this season for the Buckeyes. Watson probably gets a slight nod over Pitcock when you match them up head to head. Kudla gets the nod over Massey, and I’d take Patterson over Branch any day of the week. A couple of things stick out to me about this Michigan defensive line. The first thing is their lack of pressure on the QB, they only have 18 sacks on the season, which leads me to believe that these guys aren’t very disruptive. OSU has 20 more sacks than this Wolverine unit on the season, a remarkable stat in my opinion. The second thing is Michigan’s vulnerability to the run. They are ranked 4th in the conference, but do tend to get run on from time to time, something that doesn’t happen against this OSU front 4.
Edge: Ohio State
Linebackers
OLB #6 Prescott Burgess** (6-3 243 JR)
ILB #45 Dave Harris (6-2 251 SR)
ILB #37 Chris Graham* (5-11 224 SO)
RLB #99 Pierre Woods*** (6-5 249 5th SR)
Or
RLB #56 Lamarr Woodley*** (6-2 274 JR)
Leading the way at linebacker for Michigan will be junior Lamarr Woodley. Well, typically Woodley would be classified as a defensive end, but in their system Woodley is considered rush linebacker. Regardless of affiliation he has been very dominant when he hasn’t been injured this season. He has a total of 41 tackles on the season, and leads the team with 14 tackles for loss and 5 sacks. In addition, he has forced 2 fumbles and recovered another this season. Woodley has come up big in the big games this season for the Wolverines. Against Penn St. he had 4 tackles for a loss and a sack, against Notre Dame he had 2 TFL’s and a sack. Woodley, a 2nd team All Big Ten pick a year ago, has the ability to change an offensive game plan, and will have to be contained if they Buckeyes want to throw the ball this week. Filling in for Woodley in case he can’t go the whole game will be Cleveland Glenville native Pierre Woods. On the season Woods has a total of 18 tackles, including 8 for a loss and 2 sacks. Woods has also forced a fumble, and been credited with a QB hurry this season.
Getting the nod at the other outside linebacker spot will be junior Prescott Burgess. Burgess, an OSU fan favorite
, has a total of 67 tackles on the season, including 4 for a loss and a sack. Burgess has also broken up 4 passes, picked off another, and forced 2 fumbles this season. Burgess has really come on late this season. He registered a career high 11 tackles, 1 TFL and a sack against Iowa two weeks ago.Getting the nod at one of the inside linebacker spots will be senior Dave Harris. On the season Harris is tied for the team lead with 72 tackles. In addition Harris has also registered 5 tackles for a loss, 2 forced fumbles, and a fumble recovery. Harris was named the ABC player of the week for his performance in the loss against Minnesota this season where he registered 18 tackles, which was a team high dating back to the 1988 Hall of fame bowl.
The other inside linebacker spot will be manned by sophomore Chris Graham. On the season Graham has a total of 40 tackles, including 3 for a loss. In addition he has also broken up a pass, and forced a fumble. Graham is probably the weak link on this Michigan linebacker corps. He has great speed, but is undersized, and tends to get lost in the shuffle when teams run on the Wolverines. He will need a big game against the Buckeyes this week if they are to win this game.
Analysis
This is yet another strong unit for the Wolverines. The return of Woodley to the lineup has really given this defense a shot in the arm. He has the ability to really take over a game when he is on, and is someone that the Buckeyes absolutely must contain this weekend. On the other end you have rapidly improving Prescott Burgess, someone that seems to really be beginning to live up to the hype that surrounded him out of high school. Both of these Michigan outside backers are great athletes, and Burgess is someone who is also solid against the pass, which gives them great versatility and allows them to mix their blitzes. On the inside you have two steady MLB’s who will never take over a game, but never will lose games for you either. All in all this is a very solid unit, one that will probably hold the key to this ballgame. If the Buckeyes can contain Woodley, and get big bodies on these LB’s expect them to run well this weekend.
LB Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Michigan versus Ohio State
There comes a point in the season where you have to declare a linebacker unit the best in the country, this is that week. A.J. Hawk is one of the best to come through in a very, very long time. Michigan does not have anyone that can absolutely dominate like A.J. has this season. The Wolverine unit is good, but they are no Buckeye unit, that’s for damn sure.
Edge: Ohio State
Secondary
CB #29 Leon Hall** (5-11 194 JR)
FS #19 Willis Barringer** (6-0 207 SR)
SS #31 Brandent Englemon* (5-11 202 JR)
CB #13 Grant Mason* (6-0 192 5th SR)
Michigan features a secondary that has been very effective against the pass this season. Leading the way is junior All Big Ten candidate Leon Hall. On the season Hall has a total of 50 tackles, including 3 for a loss, and 2 sacks. Hall is also tied for the team lead with 2 interceptions, and 7 pass breakups. He also forced and recovered a fumble this season. Hall is clearly the best player in this Michigan secondary, he has excellent speed, and is solid in run support. The true question is if he will be made lunch meat of by Santonio Holmes in the same fashion that Marlon Jackson was last season. That should be an interesting match up in the secondary, and will be key to Michigan slowing the Buckeyes down.
The other cornerback for the Wolverines will be senior Grant Mason. On the season Mason is tied for the team high with 72 tackles, which is an astronomical amount for a corner. Mason has also made two tackles for a loss, and is tied for the team lead with 2 sacks. In addition, Mason has also broken up 7 passes this season, which is also tied for the team high.
Leading the way at strong safety for the Wolverines will be junior Brandent Englemon. On the season Englemon has a total of 36 tackles, including 2 for a loss, and 2 sacks. Englemon also leads the team with 2 forced fumbles. Englemon has been hampered with a few nagging injuries this season, which has caused him to miss time against Penn St, Minnesota, and Iowa. Look for OSU to go after him early to see how well his groin is actually holding up.
The free safety spot for Michigan will be held down by senior Willis Barringer. On the season Barringer has a total of 30 tackles, and 2 interceptions. Barringer has also broken up 3 passes, and forced a fumble this season. Barringer suffered an injury earlier in the season which caused him to miss the Penn St, and Iowa game. He returned to the starting lineup last weekend against Indiana and will get the nod over freshman Brandon Harrison this weekend once again. Barringer has the ability to make big plays when he is in the game, he had 2 interceptions in the first half against Michigan St. earlier this season. Time will tell if he is 100%, but the Wolverine staff has to love having their senior back in such a big ballgame.
Analysis
One thing that seems to be a given every season is Michigan’s solid play in the secondary. These guys have been very good against the pass all season long, and all can tackle very well. Hall brings big play ability into this secondary, which is something that the Wolverines will need this weekend against the Buckeyes. Time will tell if Smith will be able to eat these guys up once again with his feet, which is something that the Michigan secondary has been vulnerable to in the past. Look for Ohio State to work on Englemon and Barringer at the safety spots, both have been dinged up, and may not be at 100%. If there is one thing that can burn this Michigan secondary it is their over aggressiveness against the run, look for Ohio St. to hit them with play action quite a bit also.
DB Rating: A-
Head-to-Head: Michigan versus Ohio State
Both teams are very aggressive in the secondary, and are not afraid to come up and stick someone. In addition, they are both very good at tackling a receiver right after the catch. There really aren’t a whole lot of differences between the two units, but I’ll give the final nod to the leader in stats ... which is Ohio State, by 4 yards.
Edge: Barely Ohio State
Overall Defensive Analysis
This Michigan unit is one of the better squads that the Buckeyes will face offensively this season. What the Wolverines will discover is that this is not the same OSU offense that they have faced in the past. The Buckeyes have found their run game this year, and Pittman is their guy. The Buckeyes have also have a pair of very lethal receivers who have the ability to take over a game, and a unit as a whole that should give this Wolverine secondary fits. When push comes to shove this week it will come down to two things ... mental toughness, and execution. When you come into in a big rivalry game, the stats get thrown out. In this rivalry it comes down to what team wants to line up and kick the shit out of the other one, screw the finesse pansy B.S. This is the game that makes legends in the storied programs of Ohio State and Michigan. Who will be the next one to emerge? We’ll find out Saturday ...
Overall Defensive Rating: A-
Predictions
Bucklion's prediction: 27-24, Ohio State
BB73's prediction: 27-16, Ohio State
DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 31-13, Ohio State
daddyphatsac's prediction: 31-17, Ohio State
Jaxbuck's prediction: 23-20, scUM
LordJeffBuck's prediction: 27-23, Ohio State
3yardsandacloud's prediction: 27-20, Ohio State
Last Week's Results (OSU 48 - Northwestern 7)
Low score wins the year long battle of prediction supremacy! (Difference of actual score versus predicted score. 10 point penalty for picking the losing team.)
(163) 3yardsandacloud's prediction: 35-21, Ohio State (13 + 14 = 27 + 136 last week)
(170) Jaxbuck's prediction: 35-17, Ohio State (13 + 10 = 23 + 147 last week)
(176) LordJeffBuck's prediction: 34-24, Ohio State (14 + 17 = 31 + 145 last week)
(183) BB73's prediction: 38-23, Ohio State (10 + 16 = 26 + 157 last week)
(184) daddyphatsac's prediction: 34-24, Ohio State (14 + 17 = 31 + 153 last week)
(211) Bucklion's prediction: 38-21, Ohio State (10 + 14 = 24 + 187 last week)
(15) DaddyBigBucks' prediction: 49-3, Ohio State (1 + 4 = 4 + 11 last week - 2nd week of participation)
(Lots) Hubbard's prediction: Seems that Hubbard is MIA.
BB73's prediction: 27-16, Ohio State
DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 31-13, Ohio State
daddyphatsac's prediction: 31-17, Ohio State
Jaxbuck's prediction: 23-20, scUM
LordJeffBuck's prediction: 27-23, Ohio State
3yardsandacloud's prediction: 27-20, Ohio State
Last Week's Results (OSU 48 - Northwestern 7)
Low score wins the year long battle of prediction supremacy! (Difference of actual score versus predicted score. 10 point penalty for picking the losing team.)
(163) 3yardsandacloud's prediction: 35-21, Ohio State (13 + 14 = 27 + 136 last week)
(170) Jaxbuck's prediction: 35-17, Ohio State (13 + 10 = 23 + 147 last week)
(176) LordJeffBuck's prediction: 34-24, Ohio State (14 + 17 = 31 + 145 last week)
(183) BB73's prediction: 38-23, Ohio State (10 + 16 = 26 + 157 last week)
(184) daddyphatsac's prediction: 34-24, Ohio State (14 + 17 = 31 + 153 last week)
(211) Bucklion's prediction: 38-21, Ohio State (10 + 14 = 24 + 187 last week)
(15) DaddyBigBucks' prediction: 49-3, Ohio State (1 + 4 = 4 + 11 last week - 2nd week of participation)
(Lots) Hubbard's prediction: Seems that Hubbard is MIA.
Final Regular Season Results (OSU 25 - Michigan 21)
Low score wins the year long battle of prediction supremacy! (Difference of actual score versus predicted score. 10 point penalty for picking the losing team.)
(166) 3yardsandacloud's prediction: 27-20, Ohio State (2 + 1 = 3 + 163 last week)
(180) LordJeffBuck's prediction: 27-23, Ohio State (2 + 2 = 4 + 176 last week)
(187) Jaxbuck's prediction: 23-20, Michigan (2 + 5 = 7 + 10 pt penalty = 17 + 170 last week)
(190) BB73's prediction: 27-16, Ohio State (2 + 5 = 7 + 183 last week)
(194) daddyphatsac's prediction: 31-17, Ohio State (6 + 4 = 10 + 184 last week)
(216) Bucklion's prediction: 27-24, Ohio State (2 + 3 = 5 + 211 last week)
(29) DaddyBigBucks' prediction: 31-13, Ohio State (6 + 8 = 14 + 15 last week - 3rd week of participation)
(Lots) Hubbard's prediction: Seems that Hubbard is MIA.
Last edited:
