The Michigan football team hasn't started a season 9-0 since 1986. But if the sixth-ranked Wolverines beat No. 22 Northwestern tomorrow, they will likely reach that mark. But the Wolverines can hardly pencil in a victory over the Wildcats.
Michigan rushing offense vs. Northwestern rushing defense:
Michigan running back Chris Howard showed what he is capable of against UCLA last week with a four-touchdown, 109-yard rushing performance. But linebacker Pat Fitzgerald had a big game against Michigan last season.
Edge:
Michigan quarterback Scott Dreisbach had his best game of the season last weekend. Through four games, the Wildcats are giving up an average of just 166.8 yards in the air per game. But they haven't played anybody good.
Edge:
Northwestern rushing offense vs. Michigan rushing defense:
Get ready for World War III. Northwestern has one of the nation's best running backs in Darnell Autry. Michigan defense's ranks as one of the nation's best against the run, and it will attempt to keep Autry under the century mark for the first time since 1994. The Wolverines are allowing just 94 yards rushing per game.
Edge:
Northwestern quarterback Steve Schnur was one of the surprises in the Big Ten last season. This season has not been as kind to Schnur. He has already thrown as many interceptions (six) as he did all of last season.
Edge:
Special teams:
Every kick is an adventure for Michigan placekicker Remy Hamilton. In comparison, Northwestern placekicker Brian Gowins is 4-for-6 in field goals this season.
Edge:
Michigan will provide the toughest competition thus far this season for a Northwestern team that has been less than spectacular through four games. No more surprises from Northwestern.
Prediction: Michigan 27, Northwestern 21