Hoosiers Bring the Heat, Michigan Comes Up Short!

Everyone is talking about Michigan this week, especially with a new quarterback and an excellent defense. But I’m looking at the bigger picture, and I believe Indiana is the right side in this matchup.

The Hoosiers are averaging 36.6 points and 449.3 yards per game, ranking among the nation’s most productive offenses. They have balance, averaging 249.1 passing yards and 200.1 rushing yards per game. Even after coming up just short against Ohio State last week, Indiana has shown it can compete with the best teams in the country.

The real difference could be on the defensive side. Indiana is allowing just 12.9 points and 270.6 total yards per game. Its run defense has been particularly dominant, surrendering only 75.4 rushing yards per contest, the fourth-best mark in the nation. That is a major problem for a Michigan offense averaging just 22.7 points and 313.3 total yards per game.

Michigan’s defense deserves respect, allowing only 16.2 points and 256.5 total yards per game. The Wolverines have the ability to make this a competitive game, but their offense remains the question mark. With a new quarterback taking over, there is little reason to expect an immediate transformation against one of the country’s toughest defenses.

Indiana has the more productive offense, the better scoring defense and a clear advantage in stopping the run. Michigan will need its defense to carry the load, but asking that unit to keep the Hoosiers in check for four quarters is a difficult assignment.

I expect Indiana to control the tempo, limit Michigan’s scoring opportunities and do enough offensively to cover the seven-point spread.

The Pick: Indiana -7.

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