3yardsandacloud
Administrator Emeritus
2007 Michigan Wolverines Game Preview
written by: BB73, BuckeyeRyn, Buckeyeskickbuttocks, Bucklion, DaddyBigBucks, Hubbard, jwinslow, OSUBucks22, and 3yardsandacloud
Link to 2007 Michigan Wolverines Additional Information
Preface
It's finally TSUN week. 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.
Last year's contest was a true epic, the only #1 vs. #2 matchup ever between the teams. It occurred the day after TSUN legend Bo Schembechler passed away. Per some unconfirmed reports, this year's game may be the last time that the current Wolverine coach faces the Buckeyes. If the rumors surrounding Lloyd Carr's retirement are true, this game will determine whether or not he becomes only the third coach on either side of the rivalry to finish with a losing record since the Snow Bowl. Here are the records of head coaches involved in The Game after 1950:
05-01-0 (.833) tOSU's Jim Tressel (2001-present)
03-01-1 (.700) TSUN's Gary Moeller ('90-'95)
16-11-1 (.589) tOSU's Woody Hayes ('51-'78)
05-04-0 (.556) tOSU's Earle Bruce ('79-87)
11-09-1 (.548) TSUN's Bo Schembechler ('69-'89)
05-05-1 (.500) TSUN's Bennie Oosterbaan ('48-'58 - includes 2 wins and a tie from '48-'50)
06-06-0 (.500) TSUN's Lloyd Carr ('95-present)
03-07-0 (.300) TSUN's Bump Elliott ('59-'68)
02-10-1 (.192) tOSU's John Cooper ('88-2000)
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.
After some frustrations of their own in the 1990s, 'good times' for the Buckeyes 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. In the first 6 years of the Jim Tressel era, TSUN has managed only 1 win. A Buckeye win this week would constitute a 4-year winning streak for tOSU; something has thas only happened on two other occasions. From 1934-37, under head coach Francis Schmidt, who originated the awarding of the gold pants for Buckeye wins over TSUN; and from 1960-63 under Woody Hayes.
An Ohio State victory would also give them back-to-back outright Big Ten titles, something else that's only been accomplished twice: in 1916-17, and 1954-55.
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:
How many times has your team been voted #1 in the final Coaches poll, since it started in 1950? Answer: tOSU - 3, TSUN - 0 (yes, zero).
Since the major college football polls started in 1936, how many times has your team finished in the top 2? Answer: tOSU - 12, TSUN - 4.
How many 11-win seasons does each team have over the last 100 years? tOSU has 8, while TSUN has 4.
Back to The Game. 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. 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.
Last year's contest was a true epic, the only #1 vs. #2 matchup ever between the teams. It occurred the day after TSUN legend Bo Schembechler passed away. Per some unconfirmed reports, this year's game may be the last time that the current Wolverine coach faces the Buckeyes. If the rumors surrounding Lloyd Carr's retirement are true, this game will determine whether or not he becomes only the third coach on either side of the rivalry to finish with a losing record since the Snow Bowl. Here are the records of head coaches involved in The Game after 1950:
05-01-0 (.833) tOSU's Jim Tressel (2001-present)
03-01-1 (.700) TSUN's Gary Moeller ('90-'95)
16-11-1 (.589) tOSU's Woody Hayes ('51-'78)
05-04-0 (.556) tOSU's Earle Bruce ('79-87)
11-09-1 (.548) TSUN's Bo Schembechler ('69-'89)
05-05-1 (.500) TSUN's Bennie Oosterbaan ('48-'58 - includes 2 wins and a tie from '48-'50)
06-06-0 (.500) TSUN's Lloyd Carr ('95-present)
03-07-0 (.300) TSUN's Bump Elliott ('59-'68)
02-10-1 (.192) tOSU's John Cooper ('88-2000)
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.
After some frustrations of their own in the 1990s, 'good times' for the Buckeyes 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. In the first 6 years of the Jim Tressel era, TSUN has managed only 1 win. A Buckeye win this week would constitute a 4-year winning streak for tOSU; something has thas only happened on two other occasions. From 1934-37, under head coach Francis Schmidt, who originated the awarding of the gold pants for Buckeye wins over TSUN; and from 1960-63 under Woody Hayes.
An Ohio State victory would also give them back-to-back outright Big Ten titles, something else that's only been accomplished twice: in 1916-17, and 1954-55.
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:
How many times has your team been voted #1 in the final Coaches poll, since it started in 1950? Answer: tOSU - 3, TSUN - 0 (yes, zero).
Since the major college football polls started in 1936, how many times has your team finished in the top 2? Answer: tOSU - 12, TSUN - 4.
How many 11-win seasons does each team have over the last 100 years? tOSU has 8, while TSUN has 4.
Back to The Game. 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. 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
Date: Saturday, November 17th, 2007
Time: Noon EDT Kick-off
Location: Michigan Stadium "The Big House" (Ann Arbor, MI)
Constructed: 1927 (Renovated in 2001)
Seating Capacity: 107,501 (Originally 84,401)
Playing Surface: FieldTurf
Events: "The Game"
Broadcast Information:
TV Broacast: ABC: Brent Musburger (Play-by-play), Kirk Herbstreit (Analysis), and Lisa Salters (Sideline)
Radio Broadcast: Ohio State Radio Network (WBNS 1460TheFan in Columbus): Paul Keels (Play-by-play), Jim Lachey (Analysis), and Marty Bannister (Sideline)
Additional Radio: Westwood One & Sirius Satellite Radio
Time: Noon EDT Kick-off
Location: Michigan Stadium "The Big House" (Ann Arbor, MI)
Constructed: 1927 (Renovated in 2001)
Seating Capacity: 107,501 (Originally 84,401)
Playing Surface: FieldTurf
Events: "The Game"
Broadcast Information:
TV Broacast: ABC: Brent Musburger (Play-by-play), Kirk Herbstreit (Analysis), and Lisa Salters (Sideline)
Radio Broadcast: Ohio State Radio Network (WBNS 1460TheFan in Columbus): Paul Keels (Play-by-play), Jim Lachey (Analysis), and Marty Bannister (Sideline)
Additional Radio: Westwood One & Sirius Satellite Radio
2007 Michigan Wolverines Offensive Preview
Returning starters: 6
After watching their national title hopes all but dashed in heart-breaking fashion, the Buckeyes have no time to lick their proverbial wounds, because it's the big week of every season now, and this week takes on a whole new meaning in terms of how the season unfolds for both teams. Both teams suffered their first conference loss last weekend, so though this is still the de facto Big Ten title game in a sense, the loser is mostly likely going to tie for 2nd with Illinois and could be relegated to the Outback Bowl ... or worse. For the Buckeyes, to start 10-0 and finish 0-2 and be relegated to the lower-tiered New Years Day bowl game would leave a horrible taste in their mouths, and they have to watch and listen to Mike Hart, Henne and the seniors after their first victory over the Buckeyes in their careers. If they win, Tressel goes 6-1 against the hated maize and blue, the Buckeyes send a heralded class out 0-4 against them, they relegate Michigan to most likely an insignificant bowl game and they head for the Rose Bowl for what is likely a big-time matchup with either Oregon or USC. For the Wolverines, particularly for all the seniors on the offensive side of the ball, this is their season, and in a sense, their career legacy, all in one single game. Win, and they beat Ohio State once before they leave, win their last game in front of their home fans, pour salt in the Buckeye wounds and essentially kill all momentum of what was a very promising season for Ohio State, and make an improbable comeback from an embarrassing 0-2 start to make their 2nd straight trip to the Rose Bowl to face what is likely a very good Pacific 10 team (even a possible rematch with Oregon to avenge a loss?) ... and go to the Rose Bowl for the 3rd time in the 4 years they've been there. Lose, and a much heralded group that was talking national championship at the start of the season could be looking at one of the worst seasons in recent memory for the Wolverines, including a loss to a I-AA team, they could miss a New Year's Day Bowl game entirely, they leave without ever beating Ohio State and they have to watch their archrival celebrate on their home field on senior day. So, even without the rivalry, the stakes of this game are huge. With the rivalry added, this game is absolutely monumental, even for this storied series, given all that is on the line for both teams.
Offensively, the Wolverines have been inconsistent and hampered by injuries and bad stretches by their defense. It has to be considered somewhat of a disappointment that a unit with so many star players fails to rank in the top 50 nationally in yards per game (414.2, 54th). The Wolverines have been respectable running the football (179.8 YPG, 36th), but pedestrian in the passing game (219.4 YPG, 65th). Certainly injuries play a part in that, but the offense has looked out of sync at times this year, particularly through the air, and have had to hitch the entire team on the back of Hart way too often. Their scoring average of 28.2 points per game reflects their yardage output (54th), and shows that this team has gone through stretches where they've struggled to move the ball and put points on the board. On the flip side, their 1st downs per game average of 22.1 is respectable (45th), and their conversion rate on 3rd down of 44.2% (33rd) indicates that the offense has made some clutch plays and has been able to keep themselves in 3rd and manageable often. So, it will be imperative for the Buckeye defense to win 1st and 2nd down and get the Wolverines into 3rd and long where Hart is neutralized and they can put some pressure on Henne, who should play but won't be moving around very well in the pocket. For the Wolverines, the success of their running game and the health of their senior QB will determine their fate on Saturday.
Quarterbacks
QB #7 Chad Henne (6-2, 226, SR, Wilson HS, Wyomissing, PA)
Henne has been criticized by some, but has put together a great career at Michigan, starting 45 games and taking the Wolverines to the Rose Bowl twice thus far while making 3rd team All-American last season. He is also the Wolverines career leader in completions, yards, and TD passes. Because of his injuries, he has missed 3 games and played only a few downs last week, so he will not approach the numbers he had his first 3 years at the helm, when he threw for at least 2500 yards and 22 TDs each season. This season, he started off horribly against Appalachian State and Oregon, barely completing 50% of his passes in either game and throwing for 2 TDs and 2 INTs en route to 2 very bad losses. After returning to the lineup for a month, he looked like a different player, completing at least 65% of his passes for 4 straight weeks, for roughly 200 yards a game, 8 TDs, 3 INTs while leading the team to wins over Northwestern, Eastern Michigan, Purdue, and Illinois. He didn't play against Minnesota, but returned to lead yet another improbable comeback win over rival Michigan State by throwing for 211 yards and 4 TDs. He played a series last week before being removed from the Wisconsin game. Obviously his health is the primary concern for the Wolverines, and for Henne, as the senior leader does not want to leave Ann Arbor without orchestrating a win over Ohio State, and certainly not without getting the chance to on senior day. Expect to see him on the field and ready to go. He's been sacked only 10 times this year, so he's been better at getting rid of the ball (and has also had good protection), but with his injuries it's possible the Buckeyes can get some added pressure on him. It's likely the Wolverine coaches won't leave him sitting in the pocket waiting for patterns to develop for too long.
The backup is of course freshman Ryan Mallett (#15), a young and big (6-6, 247) gunslinger in every sense of the word. Surprisingly he's seen action in every game but the first one, not something anyone expected in Henne's senior season. He's shown flashes of monster potential, but has also been very erratic. He threw 3 TDs against Notre Dame and Wisconsin and also led wins over Penn State and Minnesota. However his completion percentage is a rather uncouth 43.5%, and though he's attempted only 138 passes he's actually been sacked more times than Henne has (11 vs. 10) this year. He was also picked off twice against Wisconsin and wasn't even close on several throws. So, Mallett is probably the QB of the future, but he's clearly a work in progress, and the Wolverines need Henne to be able to gut out one more game.
QB Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Michigan versus Ohio State QBs
Henne (P/R): 126/205 (61.5%), 1497 yards, 14 TDs, 7 INTs, 138.5 rating; 17/-76, 0 TDs
Boeckman (P/R): 169/260 (65.0%), 2121 yards, 23 TDs, 11 INTs, 154.3 rating; 40/76, 0 TDs
It's been an up-and-down season for Henne, though he clearly has the edge in experience. Boeckman peaked in the Penn State game, but made some poor decisions last weekend against Illinois. Boeckman adds a dimension of running the football that he displayed last week especially, one that Henne will not have with his slate of injuries. So it's experience and vertical passing against versatility, consistency (last week aside), and more intermediate passes to Hartline and Ballard, for the most part. Both QBs will lean heavily on their running game as well. Depth favors the Wolverines, as Mallett has significant game experience this year, though last weekend he played poorly for the most part. Given all of the different variables, it's very difficult to pick an advantage here, so call it even, though whoever steps up at this position will have a significant role in the outcome.
Edge: Even
Running Backs
TB #20 Mike Hart (5-9, 202, SR, Onondaga Central HS, Syracuse, NY)
FB #44 Mark Moundros (6-1, 231, SO, North Farmington HS, Farmington Hills, MI)
Love him or hate him, Mike Hart has been the soul of the Michigan program the past 4 seasons (and is a captain this year), starting 37 games and putting up some phenomenal numbers. He's on every major back and player of the year award list, and is the school's all-time leading rusher. He's a 2-time 1st team All-Big Ten selection, and was an All-American last season. He's also 5th on the Big Ten all-time rushing list, trailing only Ron Dayne, Archie Griffin, Anthony Thompson, and Lorenzo White, who he will undoubtedly pass to get to 4th. Thus, his career has been one that comes along only once in a great while, even at a school as rich in tradition as Michigan.
Despite missing 3 entire games, he still has surpassed the 1000 yard mark, is 3rd in the nation at 148.5 yards per game, and has scored 12 TDs. He's gained at least 100 yards against every opponent he has faced, a remarkable achievement given how injured he has been. He's also scored at least one TD in 6 games, including 3 each against Appalachian State and Notre Dame. He had 215 yards against Eastern Michigan, and has eclipsed 185 yards 2 more times. Hart also a warrior in the truest sense because he has had an obscene amount of carries, including 30 against Northwestern, 35 against Notre Dame and a ridiculous 44 carries against Penn State. Basically that translates to when all else is going wrong, give the ball to Hart again and again, and he's not only handled it but excelled at it. He'll carry the load, and do it gladly, and he won't drop it ... he has just 3 career fumbles in 4 years, and has gone nearly 1000 touches without losing a fumble. The question is will his body cooperate? Expect him to be ready to go Saturday, and expect his best effort, though how well he holds up is anybody's guess. He had a huge game against the Buckeyes last year (142 yards, 3 TDs), so the defense will have its work cut out for it, and if he is breathing and can move, he'll take the rock and do something with it.
The backup situation has 2 sophomore options, both of whom have significant carries this season. Brandon Minor (#4) is 2nd on the team in rushing. He gained 82 yards against Notre Dame, and had 157 yards and a score against Minnesota. In the absence of Hart, Carlos Brown (#23) has made 3 starts, and his production numbers are very similar to those of Minor. Brown gained 66 yards against Purdue, 113 against Illinois and 132 against Minnesota, scoring a pair of TDs in the Purdue and Minnesota contests. Both of these players are solid and can contribute, though they don't have nearly the moxie, the explosiveness, nor the ability to protect the football that Hart does. Neither was able to do much against Wisconsin, so clearly Michigan needs Hart in there most of the game. However the depth will allow Hart a rest here and there if necessary to keep him fresh for the 4th quarter, so the running game will probably keep the Buckeyes' hands full all day Saturday.
RB Rating: A
Head-to-Head: Michigan versus Ohio State RBs
Hart: 215/1188 yards, 12 TDs, 5.5 YPC; 7 rec/43 yards, 0 TDs, 6.1 YPR
Minor: 89/387 yards, 1 TD, 4.3 YPC; 3 rec/1 yard, 0 TDs, 0.3 YPR
Brown: 75/382 yards, 4 TDs, 5.1 YPC; 0 rec/0 yards, 0 TDs, 0.0 YPR
C Wells: 215/1241 yards, 12 TDs, 5.8 YPC; 5 rec/21 yards, 0 TDs, 4.2 YPR
M Wells: 102/365 yards, 3 TDs, 3.6 YPC; 10 rec/47 yards, 1 TD, 4.7 YPR
Saine: 51/247 yards, 2 TDs, 4.8 YPC: 9 rec/91 yards, 1 TD, 10.1 YPR
Questions and intrigue abound at this position. How healthy is Hart? How healthy is Chris Wells? Or Maurice Wells for that matter? How many carries can any of them take, and when? Clearly the Buckeyes struggled last week when Wells was hurt and his production slowed, but the Wolverines aren't anywhere close to the same team when Hart isn't in there either, as last week's Wisconsin game also proved. Wells has taken over games (Michigan State and Wisconsin come to mind) in the same fashion that Hart has, has battled through injuries the same way Hart has, and has put up numbers very similar to what Hart has put up. So both players have proven to be the backbone of their offenses, as they have needed to be. The backups are also quality, though not nearly as good as the originals, so to speak. Minor, Brown, Wells, and Saine give each team 2 options to go to, and they can be at important stages of the game because they all have contributed significantly in stretches this season. So, talent, depth, health, importance ... everything looks about the same, so it's hard to pick one unit over the other. The running game will be the central focus of both offenses ... and defenses, so it will be a very special game to watch here.
Edge: Even
Wide Receivers
WR #86 Mario Manningham (6-0, 178, JR, Warren G. Harding HS, Warren, OH)
WR #16 Adrian Arrington (6-3, 195, SR, Washington HS, Cedar Rapids, IA)
WR #13 Greg Matthews (6-3, 231, SO, Edgewater HS, Orlando, FL)
Manningham is a superstar receiver who has started 19 career games and can burn any team deep at any time. He can seemingly disappear for a couple of quarters, as he did against Wisconsin, but then pounce on a favorable matchup and hit a homerun. He's had 7 100-yard receiving games, including the last 6 in a row (for him, he didn't play against Eastern Michigan). He hit Northwestern for 10 catches and 123 yards, had 147 against Purdue, 109 against Illinois, 162 against Minnesota, 129 against Michigan State and 113 last week against Wisconsin on only 3 catches. Over that span he's scored at least once a game, getting a pair against each of Purdue, Illinois, Michigan State, and Wisconsin. So clearly he's on a roll, and will be looking to get behind the secondary and make a statement this weekend.
Arrington is a great veteran player to have on the other side of Manningham. He's been consistent this year, catching at least 4 passes in 9 games. He's broken the 100 yard mark 2 times, against Eastern Michigan (102) and last week against Wisconsin (101). Along the way he's caught 6 TDs, including 3 in conference play, so he will be dangerous should the Buckeyes leave him alone with a DB to concentrate on Manningham.
Matthews has been a very good 3rd option as well. He's used often in 3 receiver sets. He's a bigger target and can be a threat over the middle and in the red zone, and can be a possession-type player that can make a big catch on 3rd down. He's caught between 2 and 4 passes each of the last 8 games, scoring a TD against Michigan State, so he's another young player that can do some damage if left in single coverage.
There isn't much behind the big 3 ... the backups LaTerryal Savoy (#82), Junior Hemmingway (#21), and Toney Clemons (#17) have combined for 5 catches.
WR Rating: A-
Head-to-Head: Michigan versus Ohio State WRs
Manningham: 62 catches, 1062 yards, 11 TDs, 17.1 YPR
Arrington: 56 catches, 716 yards, 6 TDs, 12.8 YPR
Matthews: 31 catches, 299 yards, 3 TDs, 9.6 YPR
Robiskie: 48 catches, 864 yards, 10 TDs, 18.0 YPR
Hartline: 45 catches, 610 yards, 5 TDs, 13.6 YPR
Small: 18 catches, 248 yards, 2 TDs, 13.8 YPR
Well this is another battle that's awfully close to call. Manningham is probably the best and most explosive of the group, though Robiskie has demonstrated plenty of big-play potential this year as well. Hartline is an outstanding 2nd option, but then again so is Arrington. And Matthews has stepped up his level and contributed significantly, but so has Small. So what to make of it all? Well, both units are about 3 deep, both have 3 very good players, and both can break a big play and keep a drive alive with some individual effort. Manningham is probably the best of the lot, and Matthews' production has exceeded Small's, so by the slimmest of margins, give the edge to the Wolverines.
Edge: Michigan
Tight Ends
TE #85 Carson Butler (6-4, 247, JR, Renaissance HS, Detroit, MI)
TE #42 Chris McLaurin (6-3, 232, JR, Orchard Lake St. Mary's HS, Rochester Hills, MI)
As is customary with Michigan in recent seasons, there is strength in numbers at this position. Butler, who came on strong late last season, has made 4 starts at TE (Michigan switches formations, so sometimes they start 3 receivers officially instead of a TE) and has been the most consistent contributor in the passing game. He has great size, is a big target, and has been working steadily on his blocking. He also caught a big TD pass in the Michigan State game. McLaurin is listed as even on the depth chart this week, and is primarily a blocker and special teams player. He started one game this season, against Eastern Michigan, and look for him in double TE sets, which Michigan will use with relative frequency.
TE Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Michigan versus Ohio State TEs
Butler: 15 catches, 157 yards, 2 TDs, 10.5 YPR
McLaurin: 1 catch, 11 yards, 0 TDs, 11.0 YPR
Nicol: 16 catches, 84 yards, 0 TDs, 5.3 YPR
Ballard: 11 catches, 141 yards, 2 TDs, 12.8 YPR
These units are very similar in many respects. Each has a threat in the passing game (Butler and Ballard) and each has a steady blocker. Butler and Ballard have shown to be matchup problems in the secondary, so there could be a big play or two this weekend from one unit or the other, and it could ultimately go a long way in deciding the game's outcome if someone steps up on a critical 3rd down, in the red zone, or on a play-action post pattern.
Edge: Even
Offensive Line
LT #77 Jake Long (6-7, 315, SR, Lapeer East HS, Lapeer, MI)
LG #65 Justin Boren (6-3, 308, SO, Pickerington North HS, Pickerington, OH)
C #57 Adam Kraus (6-6, 295, SR, Brother Martin HS, New Orleans, LA)
RG #70 Jeremy Ciulla (6-4, 295, SR, Kennesaw Mountain HS, Kennesaw, GA)
RT #52 Stephen Schilling (6-5, 298, SO, Bellevue HS, Bellevue, WA)
As usual, the Michigan line has a bunch of battering rams that most team would love to have in their trenches, and they are headlined by the latest in a long line of excellent tackles. Jake Long, a 2006 All-American, has started 38 games, and has been a stalwart of the Michigan line, a two time captain (one of only 11 players with this honor at Michigan in history) and unquestioned leader of the team, is a strong candidate for the Outland and Lombardi trophies, and no doubt has a very bright NFL future. His work at the LT position has made the job of less-mobile QBs standing in the pocket and delivering the ball to Manningham and Arrington a whole lot easier, not to mention safer. The Wolverines are also strong up the middle on the left side, as Boren and Kraus have both started all 11 games this season along with Long. Kraus, a 1st team 2006 All-Big Ten player, played the first 8 games as the guard and Boren played at center, and then they switched it up in the Minnesota game and have started as configured the past 3 weekends. Kraus has started all 3 interior line positions in his career and has started a total of 33 games. Boren, an Ohio product, has tremendous upside, and is one of only 4 players in the modern era to start a game on the line at Michigan as a true freshman (Northwestern, last season). At right tackle, Schilling is agile and has made 11 starts, 9 of those at tackle including the last 4 (he lined up twice at RG in the middle of the schedule). He is a younger player than many of his linemates and like Boren appears to have a bright future ahead of him. The only position in a constant state of flux has been the right guard spot. In addition to Schilling, 3 other players have made starts there, including Ciulla, who began the season as the starter but has made just 3 starts since opening weekend. He's slated to start against Ohio State.
Several players have played extensively this year, giving the Wolverines some depth. The top backup is probably guard Alex Mitchell (#73), a veteran monster (6-5, 324, SR) who has started 4 games at right guard this season, including last week's Wisconsin game. He started all 13 games last season, so expect him to see the field extensively if he doesn't start this week. Junior guard Tim McAvoy (#62) has also made a start at the right guard spot and could also see action this weekend on the interior. Backup tackle Mark Ortmann (#71) has made 2 starts on the right side, so he also adds some significant game experience.
OL Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Michigan versus Ohio State OL
Both of these lines do a very good job at run blocking and also can protect the quarterback effectively. Long is clearly the superstar of the bunch, though Kraus and Boone and Rehring and Barton are all very good players. It's always difficult to size up the lines, though in this case the Wolverines have the superstar, the extensive experience in the interior, and probably the edge in depth. So, despite the revolving door at right guard, a slight edge goes to the maize and blue, but watch for the Buckeye line to make a potential statement with their play this weekend if Ohio State is going to have a chance to win on the road.
Edge: Michigan
Overall Offensive Analysis
The numbers don't bear out that this is a great offense, but key players have been hurt for significant stretches and the Wolverines began the season in the top 5 based primarily on the expectations of the offense, so the talent is certainly there. The line is solid as always, they have a warrior at TB, they have a big play threat at wideout, solid TEs and a senior and experience QB. They also have lingering doubts about their injuries and the extreme pressure of all that is riding on this game ... for the team, for the seniors, and for the coach. The key for Michigan will be to ride Hart, move the chains, set up 3rd and manageable, and then use play action and misdirection to notch a few big plays and get the ball to Manningham. Patience will also be a must, as they can't get frustrated by a few punts or Manningham not touching the ball for a quarter. They will have to use their backups to keep Hart fresh for the 4th quarter drive, use the passing game to keep the Buckeyes at bay and from stacking the line, and it will be imperative that the line play well with injuries to Hart and a gimpy Henne. If the senior starters can play the whole game, the Wolverines have an excellent chance of being right there at the end. This offense has plays out there, and players that can make them ... will they? And will they stay healthy long enough to get their opportunity? Tune in Saturday at high noon to see, with absolutely everything on the line.
Overall Offensive Rating: B+
After watching their national title hopes all but dashed in heart-breaking fashion, the Buckeyes have no time to lick their proverbial wounds, because it's the big week of every season now, and this week takes on a whole new meaning in terms of how the season unfolds for both teams. Both teams suffered their first conference loss last weekend, so though this is still the de facto Big Ten title game in a sense, the loser is mostly likely going to tie for 2nd with Illinois and could be relegated to the Outback Bowl ... or worse. For the Buckeyes, to start 10-0 and finish 0-2 and be relegated to the lower-tiered New Years Day bowl game would leave a horrible taste in their mouths, and they have to watch and listen to Mike Hart, Henne and the seniors after their first victory over the Buckeyes in their careers. If they win, Tressel goes 6-1 against the hated maize and blue, the Buckeyes send a heralded class out 0-4 against them, they relegate Michigan to most likely an insignificant bowl game and they head for the Rose Bowl for what is likely a big-time matchup with either Oregon or USC. For the Wolverines, particularly for all the seniors on the offensive side of the ball, this is their season, and in a sense, their career legacy, all in one single game. Win, and they beat Ohio State once before they leave, win their last game in front of their home fans, pour salt in the Buckeye wounds and essentially kill all momentum of what was a very promising season for Ohio State, and make an improbable comeback from an embarrassing 0-2 start to make their 2nd straight trip to the Rose Bowl to face what is likely a very good Pacific 10 team (even a possible rematch with Oregon to avenge a loss?) ... and go to the Rose Bowl for the 3rd time in the 4 years they've been there. Lose, and a much heralded group that was talking national championship at the start of the season could be looking at one of the worst seasons in recent memory for the Wolverines, including a loss to a I-AA team, they could miss a New Year's Day Bowl game entirely, they leave without ever beating Ohio State and they have to watch their archrival celebrate on their home field on senior day. So, even without the rivalry, the stakes of this game are huge. With the rivalry added, this game is absolutely monumental, even for this storied series, given all that is on the line for both teams.
Offensively, the Wolverines have been inconsistent and hampered by injuries and bad stretches by their defense. It has to be considered somewhat of a disappointment that a unit with so many star players fails to rank in the top 50 nationally in yards per game (414.2, 54th). The Wolverines have been respectable running the football (179.8 YPG, 36th), but pedestrian in the passing game (219.4 YPG, 65th). Certainly injuries play a part in that, but the offense has looked out of sync at times this year, particularly through the air, and have had to hitch the entire team on the back of Hart way too often. Their scoring average of 28.2 points per game reflects their yardage output (54th), and shows that this team has gone through stretches where they've struggled to move the ball and put points on the board. On the flip side, their 1st downs per game average of 22.1 is respectable (45th), and their conversion rate on 3rd down of 44.2% (33rd) indicates that the offense has made some clutch plays and has been able to keep themselves in 3rd and manageable often. So, it will be imperative for the Buckeye defense to win 1st and 2nd down and get the Wolverines into 3rd and long where Hart is neutralized and they can put some pressure on Henne, who should play but won't be moving around very well in the pocket. For the Wolverines, the success of their running game and the health of their senior QB will determine their fate on Saturday.
Quarterbacks
QB #7 Chad Henne (6-2, 226, SR, Wilson HS, Wyomissing, PA)
Henne has been criticized by some, but has put together a great career at Michigan, starting 45 games and taking the Wolverines to the Rose Bowl twice thus far while making 3rd team All-American last season. He is also the Wolverines career leader in completions, yards, and TD passes. Because of his injuries, he has missed 3 games and played only a few downs last week, so he will not approach the numbers he had his first 3 years at the helm, when he threw for at least 2500 yards and 22 TDs each season. This season, he started off horribly against Appalachian State and Oregon, barely completing 50% of his passes in either game and throwing for 2 TDs and 2 INTs en route to 2 very bad losses. After returning to the lineup for a month, he looked like a different player, completing at least 65% of his passes for 4 straight weeks, for roughly 200 yards a game, 8 TDs, 3 INTs while leading the team to wins over Northwestern, Eastern Michigan, Purdue, and Illinois. He didn't play against Minnesota, but returned to lead yet another improbable comeback win over rival Michigan State by throwing for 211 yards and 4 TDs. He played a series last week before being removed from the Wisconsin game. Obviously his health is the primary concern for the Wolverines, and for Henne, as the senior leader does not want to leave Ann Arbor without orchestrating a win over Ohio State, and certainly not without getting the chance to on senior day. Expect to see him on the field and ready to go. He's been sacked only 10 times this year, so he's been better at getting rid of the ball (and has also had good protection), but with his injuries it's possible the Buckeyes can get some added pressure on him. It's likely the Wolverine coaches won't leave him sitting in the pocket waiting for patterns to develop for too long.
The backup is of course freshman Ryan Mallett (#15), a young and big (6-6, 247) gunslinger in every sense of the word. Surprisingly he's seen action in every game but the first one, not something anyone expected in Henne's senior season. He's shown flashes of monster potential, but has also been very erratic. He threw 3 TDs against Notre Dame and Wisconsin and also led wins over Penn State and Minnesota. However his completion percentage is a rather uncouth 43.5%, and though he's attempted only 138 passes he's actually been sacked more times than Henne has (11 vs. 10) this year. He was also picked off twice against Wisconsin and wasn't even close on several throws. So, Mallett is probably the QB of the future, but he's clearly a work in progress, and the Wolverines need Henne to be able to gut out one more game.
QB Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Michigan versus Ohio State QBs
Henne (P/R): 126/205 (61.5%), 1497 yards, 14 TDs, 7 INTs, 138.5 rating; 17/-76, 0 TDs
Boeckman (P/R): 169/260 (65.0%), 2121 yards, 23 TDs, 11 INTs, 154.3 rating; 40/76, 0 TDs
It's been an up-and-down season for Henne, though he clearly has the edge in experience. Boeckman peaked in the Penn State game, but made some poor decisions last weekend against Illinois. Boeckman adds a dimension of running the football that he displayed last week especially, one that Henne will not have with his slate of injuries. So it's experience and vertical passing against versatility, consistency (last week aside), and more intermediate passes to Hartline and Ballard, for the most part. Both QBs will lean heavily on their running game as well. Depth favors the Wolverines, as Mallett has significant game experience this year, though last weekend he played poorly for the most part. Given all of the different variables, it's very difficult to pick an advantage here, so call it even, though whoever steps up at this position will have a significant role in the outcome.
Edge: Even
Running Backs
TB #20 Mike Hart (5-9, 202, SR, Onondaga Central HS, Syracuse, NY)
FB #44 Mark Moundros (6-1, 231, SO, North Farmington HS, Farmington Hills, MI)
Love him or hate him, Mike Hart has been the soul of the Michigan program the past 4 seasons (and is a captain this year), starting 37 games and putting up some phenomenal numbers. He's on every major back and player of the year award list, and is the school's all-time leading rusher. He's a 2-time 1st team All-Big Ten selection, and was an All-American last season. He's also 5th on the Big Ten all-time rushing list, trailing only Ron Dayne, Archie Griffin, Anthony Thompson, and Lorenzo White, who he will undoubtedly pass to get to 4th. Thus, his career has been one that comes along only once in a great while, even at a school as rich in tradition as Michigan.
Despite missing 3 entire games, he still has surpassed the 1000 yard mark, is 3rd in the nation at 148.5 yards per game, and has scored 12 TDs. He's gained at least 100 yards against every opponent he has faced, a remarkable achievement given how injured he has been. He's also scored at least one TD in 6 games, including 3 each against Appalachian State and Notre Dame. He had 215 yards against Eastern Michigan, and has eclipsed 185 yards 2 more times. Hart also a warrior in the truest sense because he has had an obscene amount of carries, including 30 against Northwestern, 35 against Notre Dame and a ridiculous 44 carries against Penn State. Basically that translates to when all else is going wrong, give the ball to Hart again and again, and he's not only handled it but excelled at it. He'll carry the load, and do it gladly, and he won't drop it ... he has just 3 career fumbles in 4 years, and has gone nearly 1000 touches without losing a fumble. The question is will his body cooperate? Expect him to be ready to go Saturday, and expect his best effort, though how well he holds up is anybody's guess. He had a huge game against the Buckeyes last year (142 yards, 3 TDs), so the defense will have its work cut out for it, and if he is breathing and can move, he'll take the rock and do something with it.
The backup situation has 2 sophomore options, both of whom have significant carries this season. Brandon Minor (#4) is 2nd on the team in rushing. He gained 82 yards against Notre Dame, and had 157 yards and a score against Minnesota. In the absence of Hart, Carlos Brown (#23) has made 3 starts, and his production numbers are very similar to those of Minor. Brown gained 66 yards against Purdue, 113 against Illinois and 132 against Minnesota, scoring a pair of TDs in the Purdue and Minnesota contests. Both of these players are solid and can contribute, though they don't have nearly the moxie, the explosiveness, nor the ability to protect the football that Hart does. Neither was able to do much against Wisconsin, so clearly Michigan needs Hart in there most of the game. However the depth will allow Hart a rest here and there if necessary to keep him fresh for the 4th quarter, so the running game will probably keep the Buckeyes' hands full all day Saturday.
RB Rating: A
Head-to-Head: Michigan versus Ohio State RBs
Hart: 215/1188 yards, 12 TDs, 5.5 YPC; 7 rec/43 yards, 0 TDs, 6.1 YPR
Minor: 89/387 yards, 1 TD, 4.3 YPC; 3 rec/1 yard, 0 TDs, 0.3 YPR
Brown: 75/382 yards, 4 TDs, 5.1 YPC; 0 rec/0 yards, 0 TDs, 0.0 YPR
C Wells: 215/1241 yards, 12 TDs, 5.8 YPC; 5 rec/21 yards, 0 TDs, 4.2 YPR
M Wells: 102/365 yards, 3 TDs, 3.6 YPC; 10 rec/47 yards, 1 TD, 4.7 YPR
Saine: 51/247 yards, 2 TDs, 4.8 YPC: 9 rec/91 yards, 1 TD, 10.1 YPR
Questions and intrigue abound at this position. How healthy is Hart? How healthy is Chris Wells? Or Maurice Wells for that matter? How many carries can any of them take, and when? Clearly the Buckeyes struggled last week when Wells was hurt and his production slowed, but the Wolverines aren't anywhere close to the same team when Hart isn't in there either, as last week's Wisconsin game also proved. Wells has taken over games (Michigan State and Wisconsin come to mind) in the same fashion that Hart has, has battled through injuries the same way Hart has, and has put up numbers very similar to what Hart has put up. So both players have proven to be the backbone of their offenses, as they have needed to be. The backups are also quality, though not nearly as good as the originals, so to speak. Minor, Brown, Wells, and Saine give each team 2 options to go to, and they can be at important stages of the game because they all have contributed significantly in stretches this season. So, talent, depth, health, importance ... everything looks about the same, so it's hard to pick one unit over the other. The running game will be the central focus of both offenses ... and defenses, so it will be a very special game to watch here.
Edge: Even
Wide Receivers
WR #86 Mario Manningham (6-0, 178, JR, Warren G. Harding HS, Warren, OH)
WR #16 Adrian Arrington (6-3, 195, SR, Washington HS, Cedar Rapids, IA)
WR #13 Greg Matthews (6-3, 231, SO, Edgewater HS, Orlando, FL)
Manningham is a superstar receiver who has started 19 career games and can burn any team deep at any time. He can seemingly disappear for a couple of quarters, as he did against Wisconsin, but then pounce on a favorable matchup and hit a homerun. He's had 7 100-yard receiving games, including the last 6 in a row (for him, he didn't play against Eastern Michigan). He hit Northwestern for 10 catches and 123 yards, had 147 against Purdue, 109 against Illinois, 162 against Minnesota, 129 against Michigan State and 113 last week against Wisconsin on only 3 catches. Over that span he's scored at least once a game, getting a pair against each of Purdue, Illinois, Michigan State, and Wisconsin. So clearly he's on a roll, and will be looking to get behind the secondary and make a statement this weekend.
Arrington is a great veteran player to have on the other side of Manningham. He's been consistent this year, catching at least 4 passes in 9 games. He's broken the 100 yard mark 2 times, against Eastern Michigan (102) and last week against Wisconsin (101). Along the way he's caught 6 TDs, including 3 in conference play, so he will be dangerous should the Buckeyes leave him alone with a DB to concentrate on Manningham.
Matthews has been a very good 3rd option as well. He's used often in 3 receiver sets. He's a bigger target and can be a threat over the middle and in the red zone, and can be a possession-type player that can make a big catch on 3rd down. He's caught between 2 and 4 passes each of the last 8 games, scoring a TD against Michigan State, so he's another young player that can do some damage if left in single coverage.
There isn't much behind the big 3 ... the backups LaTerryal Savoy (#82), Junior Hemmingway (#21), and Toney Clemons (#17) have combined for 5 catches.
WR Rating: A-
Head-to-Head: Michigan versus Ohio State WRs
Manningham: 62 catches, 1062 yards, 11 TDs, 17.1 YPR
Arrington: 56 catches, 716 yards, 6 TDs, 12.8 YPR
Matthews: 31 catches, 299 yards, 3 TDs, 9.6 YPR
Robiskie: 48 catches, 864 yards, 10 TDs, 18.0 YPR
Hartline: 45 catches, 610 yards, 5 TDs, 13.6 YPR
Small: 18 catches, 248 yards, 2 TDs, 13.8 YPR
Well this is another battle that's awfully close to call. Manningham is probably the best and most explosive of the group, though Robiskie has demonstrated plenty of big-play potential this year as well. Hartline is an outstanding 2nd option, but then again so is Arrington. And Matthews has stepped up his level and contributed significantly, but so has Small. So what to make of it all? Well, both units are about 3 deep, both have 3 very good players, and both can break a big play and keep a drive alive with some individual effort. Manningham is probably the best of the lot, and Matthews' production has exceeded Small's, so by the slimmest of margins, give the edge to the Wolverines.
Edge: Michigan
Tight Ends
TE #85 Carson Butler (6-4, 247, JR, Renaissance HS, Detroit, MI)
TE #42 Chris McLaurin (6-3, 232, JR, Orchard Lake St. Mary's HS, Rochester Hills, MI)
As is customary with Michigan in recent seasons, there is strength in numbers at this position. Butler, who came on strong late last season, has made 4 starts at TE (Michigan switches formations, so sometimes they start 3 receivers officially instead of a TE) and has been the most consistent contributor in the passing game. He has great size, is a big target, and has been working steadily on his blocking. He also caught a big TD pass in the Michigan State game. McLaurin is listed as even on the depth chart this week, and is primarily a blocker and special teams player. He started one game this season, against Eastern Michigan, and look for him in double TE sets, which Michigan will use with relative frequency.
TE Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Michigan versus Ohio State TEs
Butler: 15 catches, 157 yards, 2 TDs, 10.5 YPR
McLaurin: 1 catch, 11 yards, 0 TDs, 11.0 YPR
Nicol: 16 catches, 84 yards, 0 TDs, 5.3 YPR
Ballard: 11 catches, 141 yards, 2 TDs, 12.8 YPR
These units are very similar in many respects. Each has a threat in the passing game (Butler and Ballard) and each has a steady blocker. Butler and Ballard have shown to be matchup problems in the secondary, so there could be a big play or two this weekend from one unit or the other, and it could ultimately go a long way in deciding the game's outcome if someone steps up on a critical 3rd down, in the red zone, or on a play-action post pattern.
Edge: Even
Offensive Line
LT #77 Jake Long (6-7, 315, SR, Lapeer East HS, Lapeer, MI)
LG #65 Justin Boren (6-3, 308, SO, Pickerington North HS, Pickerington, OH)
C #57 Adam Kraus (6-6, 295, SR, Brother Martin HS, New Orleans, LA)
RG #70 Jeremy Ciulla (6-4, 295, SR, Kennesaw Mountain HS, Kennesaw, GA)
RT #52 Stephen Schilling (6-5, 298, SO, Bellevue HS, Bellevue, WA)
As usual, the Michigan line has a bunch of battering rams that most team would love to have in their trenches, and they are headlined by the latest in a long line of excellent tackles. Jake Long, a 2006 All-American, has started 38 games, and has been a stalwart of the Michigan line, a two time captain (one of only 11 players with this honor at Michigan in history) and unquestioned leader of the team, is a strong candidate for the Outland and Lombardi trophies, and no doubt has a very bright NFL future. His work at the LT position has made the job of less-mobile QBs standing in the pocket and delivering the ball to Manningham and Arrington a whole lot easier, not to mention safer. The Wolverines are also strong up the middle on the left side, as Boren and Kraus have both started all 11 games this season along with Long. Kraus, a 1st team 2006 All-Big Ten player, played the first 8 games as the guard and Boren played at center, and then they switched it up in the Minnesota game and have started as configured the past 3 weekends. Kraus has started all 3 interior line positions in his career and has started a total of 33 games. Boren, an Ohio product, has tremendous upside, and is one of only 4 players in the modern era to start a game on the line at Michigan as a true freshman (Northwestern, last season). At right tackle, Schilling is agile and has made 11 starts, 9 of those at tackle including the last 4 (he lined up twice at RG in the middle of the schedule). He is a younger player than many of his linemates and like Boren appears to have a bright future ahead of him. The only position in a constant state of flux has been the right guard spot. In addition to Schilling, 3 other players have made starts there, including Ciulla, who began the season as the starter but has made just 3 starts since opening weekend. He's slated to start against Ohio State.
Several players have played extensively this year, giving the Wolverines some depth. The top backup is probably guard Alex Mitchell (#73), a veteran monster (6-5, 324, SR) who has started 4 games at right guard this season, including last week's Wisconsin game. He started all 13 games last season, so expect him to see the field extensively if he doesn't start this week. Junior guard Tim McAvoy (#62) has also made a start at the right guard spot and could also see action this weekend on the interior. Backup tackle Mark Ortmann (#71) has made 2 starts on the right side, so he also adds some significant game experience.
OL Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Michigan versus Ohio State OL
Both of these lines do a very good job at run blocking and also can protect the quarterback effectively. Long is clearly the superstar of the bunch, though Kraus and Boone and Rehring and Barton are all very good players. It's always difficult to size up the lines, though in this case the Wolverines have the superstar, the extensive experience in the interior, and probably the edge in depth. So, despite the revolving door at right guard, a slight edge goes to the maize and blue, but watch for the Buckeye line to make a potential statement with their play this weekend if Ohio State is going to have a chance to win on the road.
Edge: Michigan
Overall Offensive Analysis
The numbers don't bear out that this is a great offense, but key players have been hurt for significant stretches and the Wolverines began the season in the top 5 based primarily on the expectations of the offense, so the talent is certainly there. The line is solid as always, they have a warrior at TB, they have a big play threat at wideout, solid TEs and a senior and experience QB. They also have lingering doubts about their injuries and the extreme pressure of all that is riding on this game ... for the team, for the seniors, and for the coach. The key for Michigan will be to ride Hart, move the chains, set up 3rd and manageable, and then use play action and misdirection to notch a few big plays and get the ball to Manningham. Patience will also be a must, as they can't get frustrated by a few punts or Manningham not touching the ball for a quarter. They will have to use their backups to keep Hart fresh for the 4th quarter drive, use the passing game to keep the Buckeyes at bay and from stacking the line, and it will be imperative that the line play well with injuries to Hart and a gimpy Henne. If the senior starters can play the whole game, the Wolverines have an excellent chance of being right there at the end. This offense has plays out there, and players that can make them ... will they? And will they stay healthy long enough to get their opportunity? Tune in Saturday at high noon to see, with absolutely everything on the line.
Overall Offensive Rating: B+
2007 Michigan Wolverines Defensive Preview
Returning Starters: 4
Ron English's second year as Defensive Coordinator started off in a rough way with home losses to Appalachian State and Oregon, giving up 73 points as a young defense had trouble matching up against the spread option. Michigan got exactly what it needed in week three, a game against the hapless Fighting Irish of Notre Dame. At the time Notre Dame had not scored an offensive touchdown on the year, and Michigan blanked them. From there, Michigan's defense saw generally solid performances, although there was more scoring against them than they'd prefer. Still, Michigan did a good job against Juice Williams and Illinois, perhaps solving some of the spread option difficulties, in a 27 - 17 win. But, Michigan is coming off their 2nd most points given up in a single game all year (37) in a loss to Wisconsin leading in to The Game.
The average opponent manages 20.8 points a game against the Wolverines, setting the scoring D at 27th in the nation and 5th in the Big Ten. The Buckeyes check in to The Game still first in the nation in scoring defense at 11.4, despite having afforded Illinois a season high 28 in last week's loss. Michigan gives up a total of 335.1 yards per game (30th nationally, 3rd Big Ten), while Ohio State drops to second nationally at 237.5 yards per contest (1st Big Ten.) Nearly 43% of the total yards gained against Michigan have come on the ground, giving up 143.6 per game, well above last year's outstanding group. The 143.6 places them 55th in the nation and 8th in the Big Ten. Meanwhile, after Illinois rushed for 260, Ohio State drops to 4th nationally, and is now tied with Penn State for 1st in the Big with an 82.7 yard per game average. The remaining 191.5 yards per game obviously come through the air, good for 21st in the nation and 2nd in the Big Ten. Buckeye fans may consider that a surprise when thinking back to last year's Wolverine Secondary. The Buckeyes remain first in the Big Ten and second nationally against the pass, giving up only 154.7 per game.
In the turnover department, the Wolverines have the edge having acquired a total of 28, 15 by way of fumble recovery and 13 interceptions. The Buckeyes enter the finale with 10 less turnovers, with 8 fumble recoveries and 10 picks. The Buckeyes have the edge in sacks, however, 38 to 32 and in TFLs 88 to 78. The Wolverines D has been good on 3rd downs, affording opponents a conversion on 61 of 167 chances (37%), while the Buckeyes have afforded 55 of 171 (32%), no less than 4 of those coming in the last 8:06 of the Illinois game.
Without question, the Wolverine's worst game defensively came against Oregon, where the Ducks ran for 331 while passing for 293 for a total of 624 while scoring 39. Conversely, the Buckeyes are coming off their worst game defensively having given up 260 on the ground, 400 yards total and 28 points to the Illini. Wisconsin managed 269 through the air, the most given up by the Buckeyes in 2007. Individually, the Wolverines had the most trouble with Javon Ringer (128) on the ground - 72 of which came on one carry while the Buckeyes gave up 109 to Daniel Dufrene, 80 of which came on his first carry of the game. The Wolverines and the Buckeyes both afforded a Badger the most success against from a Receiver, with the Wolverines seeing Paul Hubbard gain 134 and the Buckeyes affording Travis Beckum 140.
It'll be interesting to see how each defense responds to their last games. The Buckeyes, again, come in to The Game on the heels of their worst defensive effort of the season, while the Wolverines come in having given up 30 or more for the third time in 2007. If the Wolverines can hold the Buckeyes below 30, they stand a good chance, while the Buckeyes need to reestablish themselves against the run. Considering the respective offenses being faced, neither of these appears to be an easy task, with the explosive Ohio State offense raring to take it to the Michigan stop-troops balanced between hard nosed running from Beanie Wells and a efficient and effective passing game, and Mike Hart hoping to run amok against the Buckeyes trying to gain his first win against the Bucks in his career. Also trying to gain his first win is QB Chad Henne, who has performed reasonably well against the Buckeyes but was overshadowed significantly by Troy Smith.
Defensive Line
LE #90 Tim Jamison (6-3 266 JR)
LT #67 Terrance Taylor (6-0 310 JR)
RT #97 Will Johnson (6-5 291 JR)
RE #55 Brandon Graham (6-2 276 SO)
While at this point in the season, there's little value to the idea of returning starters, among these men only Taylor can make the claim of having been a starter on Michigan's outstanding 2006 front four. This season, the big but quick interior force has done well even as the focal point (with Branch's departure) of the unit, making 50 Tackles, 7.5 for loss and 3.5 sacks. He also has a fumble recovery. Next on the line in tackles is Jamison with 40. A speedy option on the end, Jamison has managed 7 TFLs and 5.5 sacks this season, while also recording a 37 yard INT. The other man on the inside, and taking over for Branch, is Will Johnson. Quicker than the former DT, Johnson is big and tough and able to get the job done. He has 32 tackles, half of which have been for loss (sack). Finally, Brandon Graham. Graham, essentially a beefed up linebacker, once ran the 100 meters in 10.9 seconds, so he's got the quicks. That speed has translated in to 9.5 TFLs (second among all Wolverines) and a team leading 8.5 sacks. He has 23 tackles.
The backups include DEs; #99 Adam Patterson (6-2 262 SO), and #92 Greg Banks (6-4 264 rFR), and DTs; #94 Brett Gallimore (6-4 298 JR), 84 Renaldo Sagesse (6-4 315 FR), and #94 John Ferrara (6-4 270 rFR). Patterson has seen action in 10 of 11 games, recording 3 tackles and a sack, while Banks has played in 9 and has 3 tackles. Neither of Gallimore or Sagesse has recorded a tackle in 2007, while Ferrara has 2, one of which was for loss.
DL Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Michigan versus OSU DL
Vernon Gohlston - 29 Tackles, 10.5 TFL, 10 Sacks, 1 Fumble Rec (TD)
Cameron Heyward - 25 Tackles, 7 TFL, 2.5 Sacks
Doug Worthington - 22 Tackles, 2 TFL, 1 Sack, INT
Dexter Larimore - 14 Tackles, 4.5 TFL, 1 Sack
While Michigan has better individual numbers in terms of tackles, some of that may have to do with Ohio State having more depth and rotating more freely across the front. Likewise, Ohio State's LBs make more tackles per game than do the Michigan backers, showing something of a difference between Michigan's version of the 4-3 and Ohio State's when it comes to philosophy. Across the starting 4, the tackles in the backfield are essentially the same. The critical stat between these two groups, then, is the rushing yards each group affords. The Buckeyes are far and away better as a defense at stopping the run, while the Wolverine line is more involved in the take downs. The Michigan D line is built more like your typical Big Ten D-Line, with 300 pound interior linemen and big but quick ends. The Buckeye group is quicker across the line, but not nearly as big inside. Given the better depth Ohio State has, as well as the stronger run statistics, the edge goes to the Buckeyes. Though, it's safe to say, each group has their work cut out for them next week as each of Ohio State and Michigan brings a game-changing running back. Assuming he stays healthy, Hart may find room running between the tackles, while Beanie should also find success against the Michigan front.
Edge: Ohio State
Linebackers
OLB #2 Shawn Crable (6-5 245 SR)
MLB #45 Obinna Ezeh (6-2 243 rFR)
WLB #37 Chris Graham (5-1 225 SR)
The Linebackers are lead by Ohio Massillon product Shawn Crable. Crable will line up at rush end from time to time, and is the fastest of all Wolverines LBs, ever. Owing to this combination of speed and lining up as rush end, he's recorded an astonishing 24 TFLs in 2007, 7.5 of which have been sacks. He also leads the Wolverines with 74 Tackles and has a fumble recovery. Ezeh has worked his way in to the starters role over the course of the year, taking over for John Thompson. A Redshirt in 2006, he has 53 Tackles, 4 TFLs, 2 sacks and a 5 yard INT in this his first season. He has All Big Ten potential. On the weak side is Chris Graham. Graham has been a spot starter in the past, getting the nod in 4 games in 2006 including the Rose Bowl. While small, he can move. He's tied for second on the team in Tackles with 73, 2 TFLs and 1 sack.
The back ups include #51 Max Pollock (6-1 218 SR), #33 Marell Evans (6-3 230 FR), #46 Brandon Logan (6-0 224 JR), #8 Jonas Mouton (6-2 230 rFR), #54 Austin Panter (6-3 231 JRJUCO) #49 John Thompson (6-1 230 JR). Thompson, a former starter, leads the reserves with 30 Tackles, 2 TLFs and a pick. Logan has recorded 9 Tackles, but has only played in 4 games. Mouton has 5 tackles in 7 games, while Pollock has played in 10 games, but has only 1 tackle. Panter, a JUCO transfer in his first year with the Wolverines has paled in 7 games and has 7 tackles with a TFL. Evans has not yet recorded a tackle.
LB Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Michigan versus OSU LBs
James Laurinaitis - 97 Tackles, 8 TFL, 5 Sacks, 2 INTs and 1 Fumble Rec.
Marcus Freeman - 86 Tackles, 9.5 TFL, 1.5 Sacks
Larry Grant - 42 Tackles, 9.5 TFL, 5 Sacks, 1 INT
As has been the case all year long, there are few LB corps in the nation which can match what the Buckeyes bring to the table. Laurinaitis continues on his path towards post season hardware, leading the team in tackles while "quarterbacking" the defense. If any Michigan LB comes close to Lil Animal, it's Crable, but Laurinaitis is better. Crable can find himself out of position and while he can make up for missed tackles with speed, Lil Animal gets the job done on the first try. As between Freeman and Graham, it's really no contest. Of the several reasons why Ohio State may have lost to Illinois, one of them is NOT Marcus Freeman who had an outstanding game setting a career mark for tackles. Grant trails Ezeh in tackles, but is a stronger threat in the backfield as well as in coverage. While both teams have shown some problems containing mobile quarterbacks, the Buckeyes have done better over the year, even though recent memory (Illinois) would defy the assertion. Fortunately for both groups, neither Ohio State nor Michigan boasts a "dual threat" signal caller in 2007's Game. Michigan's starting 3 are good enough to start for most teams in the nation, but they fall short of the Buckeyes group. Ohio State has a slight depth advantage as well, though Thompson has starters experience.
Edge: Ohio State
Secondary
RCB #14 Morgan Trent (6-1 189 JR)
WS #22 Jamar Adams (6-2 212 SR)
SS #31 Brandent Englemon (5-1 206 SR)
LCB #6 Donovan Warren (6-0 175 FR)
Most Buckeye fans would have guess the Michigan secondary to be worse than it actually is, having watched Troy Smith carve it up to the likes of Ted Ginn, Santonio Holmes and Anthony Gonzalez for the past few years. However, despite that perception, the secondary has actually been the relative strength of the defense in 2007. While Morgan Trent is not the lock down corner you'd expect from a high profile team like Michigan, he has had a decent year, recording 36 Tackles, 2 TFLs, a fumble recovery and two picks. As teams have done some picking on Trent, the Wolverines have been able to break in true Freshman Donovan Warren. In his first year with the Wolverines, he's recorded 48 Tackles, 1.5 TFLs, 1 sack, a pick and 2 fumble recoveries (leads team). The Safeties are both very active in the Michigan defense. Englemon is tied on the team for Tackles with 73. A solid veteran, he also has 2 TFLs, 1 sack and a four yard fumble recovery to go along with 2 picks. Adams is probably the most talented of the starting defensive backs. He is a good hitter and is usually in position. He needed to establish this season more consistency in coverage, and has done so by leading the team in both pass breakups with 10, and INTs with 3.
The reserve secondary includes corners; #35 Doug Dutch (5-11 200 JR), #26 Zio Babb (6-1 190 FR), #27 Brandon Harrison (5-8 195 JR), and #29 Troy Woolfolk (6-1 180 FR) and Safeties; #5 Charles Stewart (6-1 205 JR) and #3 Stevie Brown (6-0 208 SO). Junior Brandon Harrison is Trent's primary back up, and leads the reserves with 35 Tackles, 5.5 TFLs, half a sack, a pick and a fumble recovery in 11 games this season. Next among reserves is Stevie Brown who has 26 tackles, a 26 yard INT return and 2 fumble recoveries in 2007. Stewart has played in all but one game this year, recording 11 tackles and a TFL. Woolfolk has 5 Tackles in limited action, while Dutch has just one. Babb has not yet recorded a tackle.
DB Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Michigan versus OSU DBs
Malcolm Jenkins - 41 Tackles, 4 TFL, 3 INTs, 3 BrUp
Anderson Russell - 54 Tackles, 3.5 TFLs, 1 Sack, 5 BrUp
Kurt Coleman - 54 Tackles, 3.5 TFLs, 1 Sack, 1 Blk Kick
Donald Washington - 29 Tackles, 1 Sack, 1 INT (TD), 1 Fumble Rec.
Ohio State is worlds better on the corners than is Michigan. Malcolm Jenkins will be the best Corner on the field. With the size to play safety in nickel situations, Jenkins locks down his man. Quarterbacks rarely test him, but Henne will have no problem going his way, especially when Manningham is out there. Still, Jenkins has got to be excited about the opportunity. Washington is also very solid in coverage and if Jenkins decides to play on Sundays, will quickly become Ohio State's next lock-down guy. Michigan's safeties have made more tackles and have more picks, but both Russell and Coleman have played integral roles in the nation's #2 rated pass defense. Even if we give an advantage to Michigan's safeties, the gap between Ohio State's and Michigan's corners is Severe. While Michigan's secondary has done better than most people might have assumed, they are still nearly 40 yards worse per game. Chekwa, Ohio State's nickelback, would very likely start for the Wolverines, and thus Ohio State's depth gets the nod as well.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Defensive Analysis
Michigan's defense has been better against the pass than people might assume. Having gotten off to a rough start in 2007 against two teams with Mobile QBs, the defense settled in and became a top Big Ten defense. Michigan fans must look at the rushing defense statistics and wince in pain, especially considering last year's stellar group, and this group does need to improve against the run. The Buckeyes should be able to move the ball against the Wolverines, as the corners can be exploited, and Beanie Wells should be able to find lanes to run through. The Buckeyes will have to find a hat to put on Shawn Crable, who will no doubt come with bad intentions in this his last game as a Wolverine. No doubt the Wolverines will be thrilled to look across the line and not see #10 calling the signals this year. But, if they breath a sigh of relief too heavy, they may find this year's Buckeyes even more balanced and dangerous.
Overall Defensive Rating: B
Ron English's second year as Defensive Coordinator started off in a rough way with home losses to Appalachian State and Oregon, giving up 73 points as a young defense had trouble matching up against the spread option. Michigan got exactly what it needed in week three, a game against the hapless Fighting Irish of Notre Dame. At the time Notre Dame had not scored an offensive touchdown on the year, and Michigan blanked them. From there, Michigan's defense saw generally solid performances, although there was more scoring against them than they'd prefer. Still, Michigan did a good job against Juice Williams and Illinois, perhaps solving some of the spread option difficulties, in a 27 - 17 win. But, Michigan is coming off their 2nd most points given up in a single game all year (37) in a loss to Wisconsin leading in to The Game.
The average opponent manages 20.8 points a game against the Wolverines, setting the scoring D at 27th in the nation and 5th in the Big Ten. The Buckeyes check in to The Game still first in the nation in scoring defense at 11.4, despite having afforded Illinois a season high 28 in last week's loss. Michigan gives up a total of 335.1 yards per game (30th nationally, 3rd Big Ten), while Ohio State drops to second nationally at 237.5 yards per contest (1st Big Ten.) Nearly 43% of the total yards gained against Michigan have come on the ground, giving up 143.6 per game, well above last year's outstanding group. The 143.6 places them 55th in the nation and 8th in the Big Ten. Meanwhile, after Illinois rushed for 260, Ohio State drops to 4th nationally, and is now tied with Penn State for 1st in the Big with an 82.7 yard per game average. The remaining 191.5 yards per game obviously come through the air, good for 21st in the nation and 2nd in the Big Ten. Buckeye fans may consider that a surprise when thinking back to last year's Wolverine Secondary. The Buckeyes remain first in the Big Ten and second nationally against the pass, giving up only 154.7 per game.
In the turnover department, the Wolverines have the edge having acquired a total of 28, 15 by way of fumble recovery and 13 interceptions. The Buckeyes enter the finale with 10 less turnovers, with 8 fumble recoveries and 10 picks. The Buckeyes have the edge in sacks, however, 38 to 32 and in TFLs 88 to 78. The Wolverines D has been good on 3rd downs, affording opponents a conversion on 61 of 167 chances (37%), while the Buckeyes have afforded 55 of 171 (32%), no less than 4 of those coming in the last 8:06 of the Illinois game.
Without question, the Wolverine's worst game defensively came against Oregon, where the Ducks ran for 331 while passing for 293 for a total of 624 while scoring 39. Conversely, the Buckeyes are coming off their worst game defensively having given up 260 on the ground, 400 yards total and 28 points to the Illini. Wisconsin managed 269 through the air, the most given up by the Buckeyes in 2007. Individually, the Wolverines had the most trouble with Javon Ringer (128) on the ground - 72 of which came on one carry while the Buckeyes gave up 109 to Daniel Dufrene, 80 of which came on his first carry of the game. The Wolverines and the Buckeyes both afforded a Badger the most success against from a Receiver, with the Wolverines seeing Paul Hubbard gain 134 and the Buckeyes affording Travis Beckum 140.
It'll be interesting to see how each defense responds to their last games. The Buckeyes, again, come in to The Game on the heels of their worst defensive effort of the season, while the Wolverines come in having given up 30 or more for the third time in 2007. If the Wolverines can hold the Buckeyes below 30, they stand a good chance, while the Buckeyes need to reestablish themselves against the run. Considering the respective offenses being faced, neither of these appears to be an easy task, with the explosive Ohio State offense raring to take it to the Michigan stop-troops balanced between hard nosed running from Beanie Wells and a efficient and effective passing game, and Mike Hart hoping to run amok against the Buckeyes trying to gain his first win against the Bucks in his career. Also trying to gain his first win is QB Chad Henne, who has performed reasonably well against the Buckeyes but was overshadowed significantly by Troy Smith.
Defensive Line
LE #90 Tim Jamison (6-3 266 JR)
LT #67 Terrance Taylor (6-0 310 JR)
RT #97 Will Johnson (6-5 291 JR)
RE #55 Brandon Graham (6-2 276 SO)
While at this point in the season, there's little value to the idea of returning starters, among these men only Taylor can make the claim of having been a starter on Michigan's outstanding 2006 front four. This season, the big but quick interior force has done well even as the focal point (with Branch's departure) of the unit, making 50 Tackles, 7.5 for loss and 3.5 sacks. He also has a fumble recovery. Next on the line in tackles is Jamison with 40. A speedy option on the end, Jamison has managed 7 TFLs and 5.5 sacks this season, while also recording a 37 yard INT. The other man on the inside, and taking over for Branch, is Will Johnson. Quicker than the former DT, Johnson is big and tough and able to get the job done. He has 32 tackles, half of which have been for loss (sack). Finally, Brandon Graham. Graham, essentially a beefed up linebacker, once ran the 100 meters in 10.9 seconds, so he's got the quicks. That speed has translated in to 9.5 TFLs (second among all Wolverines) and a team leading 8.5 sacks. He has 23 tackles.
The backups include DEs; #99 Adam Patterson (6-2 262 SO), and #92 Greg Banks (6-4 264 rFR), and DTs; #94 Brett Gallimore (6-4 298 JR), 84 Renaldo Sagesse (6-4 315 FR), and #94 John Ferrara (6-4 270 rFR). Patterson has seen action in 10 of 11 games, recording 3 tackles and a sack, while Banks has played in 9 and has 3 tackles. Neither of Gallimore or Sagesse has recorded a tackle in 2007, while Ferrara has 2, one of which was for loss.
DL Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Michigan versus OSU DL
Vernon Gohlston - 29 Tackles, 10.5 TFL, 10 Sacks, 1 Fumble Rec (TD)
Cameron Heyward - 25 Tackles, 7 TFL, 2.5 Sacks
Doug Worthington - 22 Tackles, 2 TFL, 1 Sack, INT
Dexter Larimore - 14 Tackles, 4.5 TFL, 1 Sack
While Michigan has better individual numbers in terms of tackles, some of that may have to do with Ohio State having more depth and rotating more freely across the front. Likewise, Ohio State's LBs make more tackles per game than do the Michigan backers, showing something of a difference between Michigan's version of the 4-3 and Ohio State's when it comes to philosophy. Across the starting 4, the tackles in the backfield are essentially the same. The critical stat between these two groups, then, is the rushing yards each group affords. The Buckeyes are far and away better as a defense at stopping the run, while the Wolverine line is more involved in the take downs. The Michigan D line is built more like your typical Big Ten D-Line, with 300 pound interior linemen and big but quick ends. The Buckeye group is quicker across the line, but not nearly as big inside. Given the better depth Ohio State has, as well as the stronger run statistics, the edge goes to the Buckeyes. Though, it's safe to say, each group has their work cut out for them next week as each of Ohio State and Michigan brings a game-changing running back. Assuming he stays healthy, Hart may find room running between the tackles, while Beanie should also find success against the Michigan front.
Edge: Ohio State
Linebackers
OLB #2 Shawn Crable (6-5 245 SR)
MLB #45 Obinna Ezeh (6-2 243 rFR)
WLB #37 Chris Graham (5-1 225 SR)
The Linebackers are lead by Ohio Massillon product Shawn Crable. Crable will line up at rush end from time to time, and is the fastest of all Wolverines LBs, ever. Owing to this combination of speed and lining up as rush end, he's recorded an astonishing 24 TFLs in 2007, 7.5 of which have been sacks. He also leads the Wolverines with 74 Tackles and has a fumble recovery. Ezeh has worked his way in to the starters role over the course of the year, taking over for John Thompson. A Redshirt in 2006, he has 53 Tackles, 4 TFLs, 2 sacks and a 5 yard INT in this his first season. He has All Big Ten potential. On the weak side is Chris Graham. Graham has been a spot starter in the past, getting the nod in 4 games in 2006 including the Rose Bowl. While small, he can move. He's tied for second on the team in Tackles with 73, 2 TFLs and 1 sack.
The back ups include #51 Max Pollock (6-1 218 SR), #33 Marell Evans (6-3 230 FR), #46 Brandon Logan (6-0 224 JR), #8 Jonas Mouton (6-2 230 rFR), #54 Austin Panter (6-3 231 JRJUCO) #49 John Thompson (6-1 230 JR). Thompson, a former starter, leads the reserves with 30 Tackles, 2 TLFs and a pick. Logan has recorded 9 Tackles, but has only played in 4 games. Mouton has 5 tackles in 7 games, while Pollock has played in 10 games, but has only 1 tackle. Panter, a JUCO transfer in his first year with the Wolverines has paled in 7 games and has 7 tackles with a TFL. Evans has not yet recorded a tackle.
LB Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Michigan versus OSU LBs
James Laurinaitis - 97 Tackles, 8 TFL, 5 Sacks, 2 INTs and 1 Fumble Rec.
Marcus Freeman - 86 Tackles, 9.5 TFL, 1.5 Sacks
Larry Grant - 42 Tackles, 9.5 TFL, 5 Sacks, 1 INT
As has been the case all year long, there are few LB corps in the nation which can match what the Buckeyes bring to the table. Laurinaitis continues on his path towards post season hardware, leading the team in tackles while "quarterbacking" the defense. If any Michigan LB comes close to Lil Animal, it's Crable, but Laurinaitis is better. Crable can find himself out of position and while he can make up for missed tackles with speed, Lil Animal gets the job done on the first try. As between Freeman and Graham, it's really no contest. Of the several reasons why Ohio State may have lost to Illinois, one of them is NOT Marcus Freeman who had an outstanding game setting a career mark for tackles. Grant trails Ezeh in tackles, but is a stronger threat in the backfield as well as in coverage. While both teams have shown some problems containing mobile quarterbacks, the Buckeyes have done better over the year, even though recent memory (Illinois) would defy the assertion. Fortunately for both groups, neither Ohio State nor Michigan boasts a "dual threat" signal caller in 2007's Game. Michigan's starting 3 are good enough to start for most teams in the nation, but they fall short of the Buckeyes group. Ohio State has a slight depth advantage as well, though Thompson has starters experience.
Edge: Ohio State
Secondary
RCB #14 Morgan Trent (6-1 189 JR)
WS #22 Jamar Adams (6-2 212 SR)
SS #31 Brandent Englemon (5-1 206 SR)
LCB #6 Donovan Warren (6-0 175 FR)
Most Buckeye fans would have guess the Michigan secondary to be worse than it actually is, having watched Troy Smith carve it up to the likes of Ted Ginn, Santonio Holmes and Anthony Gonzalez for the past few years. However, despite that perception, the secondary has actually been the relative strength of the defense in 2007. While Morgan Trent is not the lock down corner you'd expect from a high profile team like Michigan, he has had a decent year, recording 36 Tackles, 2 TFLs, a fumble recovery and two picks. As teams have done some picking on Trent, the Wolverines have been able to break in true Freshman Donovan Warren. In his first year with the Wolverines, he's recorded 48 Tackles, 1.5 TFLs, 1 sack, a pick and 2 fumble recoveries (leads team). The Safeties are both very active in the Michigan defense. Englemon is tied on the team for Tackles with 73. A solid veteran, he also has 2 TFLs, 1 sack and a four yard fumble recovery to go along with 2 picks. Adams is probably the most talented of the starting defensive backs. He is a good hitter and is usually in position. He needed to establish this season more consistency in coverage, and has done so by leading the team in both pass breakups with 10, and INTs with 3.
The reserve secondary includes corners; #35 Doug Dutch (5-11 200 JR), #26 Zio Babb (6-1 190 FR), #27 Brandon Harrison (5-8 195 JR), and #29 Troy Woolfolk (6-1 180 FR) and Safeties; #5 Charles Stewart (6-1 205 JR) and #3 Stevie Brown (6-0 208 SO). Junior Brandon Harrison is Trent's primary back up, and leads the reserves with 35 Tackles, 5.5 TFLs, half a sack, a pick and a fumble recovery in 11 games this season. Next among reserves is Stevie Brown who has 26 tackles, a 26 yard INT return and 2 fumble recoveries in 2007. Stewart has played in all but one game this year, recording 11 tackles and a TFL. Woolfolk has 5 Tackles in limited action, while Dutch has just one. Babb has not yet recorded a tackle.
DB Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Michigan versus OSU DBs
Malcolm Jenkins - 41 Tackles, 4 TFL, 3 INTs, 3 BrUp
Anderson Russell - 54 Tackles, 3.5 TFLs, 1 Sack, 5 BrUp
Kurt Coleman - 54 Tackles, 3.5 TFLs, 1 Sack, 1 Blk Kick
Donald Washington - 29 Tackles, 1 Sack, 1 INT (TD), 1 Fumble Rec.
Ohio State is worlds better on the corners than is Michigan. Malcolm Jenkins will be the best Corner on the field. With the size to play safety in nickel situations, Jenkins locks down his man. Quarterbacks rarely test him, but Henne will have no problem going his way, especially when Manningham is out there. Still, Jenkins has got to be excited about the opportunity. Washington is also very solid in coverage and if Jenkins decides to play on Sundays, will quickly become Ohio State's next lock-down guy. Michigan's safeties have made more tackles and have more picks, but both Russell and Coleman have played integral roles in the nation's #2 rated pass defense. Even if we give an advantage to Michigan's safeties, the gap between Ohio State's and Michigan's corners is Severe. While Michigan's secondary has done better than most people might have assumed, they are still nearly 40 yards worse per game. Chekwa, Ohio State's nickelback, would very likely start for the Wolverines, and thus Ohio State's depth gets the nod as well.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Defensive Analysis
Michigan's defense has been better against the pass than people might assume. Having gotten off to a rough start in 2007 against two teams with Mobile QBs, the defense settled in and became a top Big Ten defense. Michigan fans must look at the rushing defense statistics and wince in pain, especially considering last year's stellar group, and this group does need to improve against the run. The Buckeyes should be able to move the ball against the Wolverines, as the corners can be exploited, and Beanie Wells should be able to find lanes to run through. The Buckeyes will have to find a hat to put on Shawn Crable, who will no doubt come with bad intentions in this his last game as a Wolverine. No doubt the Wolverines will be thrilled to look across the line and not see #10 calling the signals this year. But, if they breath a sigh of relief too heavy, they may find this year's Buckeyes even more balanced and dangerous.
Overall Defensive Rating: B
2007 Michigan Wolverines Special Teams Preview
Returning Starters: 1
It seems lately under Lloyd Carr special teams have not been stressed as much, but they have never been a weakness on the team including this year. They have a pretty solid unit with some Ohio flavor thrown in there. Experience seems to be lacking, but talent is not.
Special Teams
P #41 Zolton Mesko (6-4 343 JR)
PK #84 K.C. Lopata (6-2 226 SR)
PR #13 Greg Mathews (6-3 231 SO)
KR #23 Carlos Brown (6-0 209 SO)
KR #4 Brandon Minor (6-0 212 SO)
LS #59 Sean Griffin (6-2 238 LS)
Kicking Game:
Michigan, always needin' Ohio for their talent and stuff. Zolton Mesko (who didn't get offered by OSU) from Twinsburg, Ohio is the starting punter for them who began the year on the Ray Guy Award watch list. He's having a pretty good year, averaging 41.3 yards per punt (although their yearly statistics say 39.9 yards per, that UM education sure is all it's cracked up to be), with 19 inside the 20 and 7 touchbacks. He had a career long of 67 yards on a punt against Illinois this year and has yet to have a kicked blocked. He has had a few shanks this year, but what punter hasn't.
Their starting kicker, K.C. Lopata was not the starter at the beginning of the year, Jason Gingell was, but after going 3-6 in the first 3 games he was benched and Lopata has been the guy since. And what a guy he's been, he's perfect. He's 8-8 with a long of 42 with no blocks. Although he is not doing the kickoffs so I suspect a weak leg, but you can't argue with his success.
Kicking Game Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: A.J. Trapasso and Ryan Pretorius vs. Zolton Mesko and K.C. Lopata
Ohio State's special teams is not up to par this year. Period. I still like Trapasso though I feel he's the star on the squad, but unfortunately Pretorius isn't having a year like we've come to expect under Tressel. It's not a terrible year by any stretch.
Edge: Michigan
Return Game:
The punt returner Greg Mathews is having a solid year averaging 8.7 yards per return, which ranks him fifth in the Big Ten. He has a long of 29 yards and hasn't taken one to the house.
The starting kick returners are normally Carlos Brown and Brandon Minor, but for this game Michigan threw in a new wrinkle by listing the starters as Brandon Harrison (from Chaminade-Julienne High School in Dayton Ohio also not offered by OSU) and Junior Hemingway. I think they are giving the nod to Harrison because he is playing his hometown school, but I expect to see Brown and Minor back there the majority of the afternoon.
Brown has the majority of the returns with 15 on the season. He's averaging 19.3 yards per with a long of 32. Minor has had 8 shots at it and is averaging 19.9 yards with a long of 35. Brown and Minor aren't technically "returning starters", but hey have seen a lot of action on the offensive side of the ball that they have had that game experience and been in the line of fire. So the number of returning starters is misleading.
Return Game Rating: B-
Head-to-Head: Brian Hartline, Ray Small and Brandon Saine vs. Carlos Brown, Brandon Harrison, Junior Hemingway and Brandon Minor.
Neither of these squads has torn it up. OSU is having a down year other than Hartline and Michigan has been nothing more than steady. I am sure they are just starting Harrison to try and provide a spark for the game.
Edge: Even
Overall Special Teams Analysis
These guys are not short on talent, thanks in part to the great state of Ohio, but, surprisingly the most production of the special teams has been from the kickers despite the playmakers Michigan has back returning the ball. I just hope it doesn't catch up this Saturday.
Overall Special Teams Rating: B
It seems lately under Lloyd Carr special teams have not been stressed as much, but they have never been a weakness on the team including this year. They have a pretty solid unit with some Ohio flavor thrown in there. Experience seems to be lacking, but talent is not.
Special Teams
P #41 Zolton Mesko (6-4 343 JR)
PK #84 K.C. Lopata (6-2 226 SR)
PR #13 Greg Mathews (6-3 231 SO)
KR #23 Carlos Brown (6-0 209 SO)
KR #4 Brandon Minor (6-0 212 SO)
LS #59 Sean Griffin (6-2 238 LS)
Kicking Game:
Michigan, always needin' Ohio for their talent and stuff. Zolton Mesko (who didn't get offered by OSU) from Twinsburg, Ohio is the starting punter for them who began the year on the Ray Guy Award watch list. He's having a pretty good year, averaging 41.3 yards per punt (although their yearly statistics say 39.9 yards per, that UM education sure is all it's cracked up to be), with 19 inside the 20 and 7 touchbacks. He had a career long of 67 yards on a punt against Illinois this year and has yet to have a kicked blocked. He has had a few shanks this year, but what punter hasn't.
Their starting kicker, K.C. Lopata was not the starter at the beginning of the year, Jason Gingell was, but after going 3-6 in the first 3 games he was benched and Lopata has been the guy since. And what a guy he's been, he's perfect. He's 8-8 with a long of 42 with no blocks. Although he is not doing the kickoffs so I suspect a weak leg, but you can't argue with his success.
Kicking Game Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: A.J. Trapasso and Ryan Pretorius vs. Zolton Mesko and K.C. Lopata
Ohio State's special teams is not up to par this year. Period. I still like Trapasso though I feel he's the star on the squad, but unfortunately Pretorius isn't having a year like we've come to expect under Tressel. It's not a terrible year by any stretch.
Edge: Michigan
Return Game:
The punt returner Greg Mathews is having a solid year averaging 8.7 yards per return, which ranks him fifth in the Big Ten. He has a long of 29 yards and hasn't taken one to the house.
The starting kick returners are normally Carlos Brown and Brandon Minor, but for this game Michigan threw in a new wrinkle by listing the starters as Brandon Harrison (from Chaminade-Julienne High School in Dayton Ohio also not offered by OSU) and Junior Hemingway. I think they are giving the nod to Harrison because he is playing his hometown school, but I expect to see Brown and Minor back there the majority of the afternoon.
Brown has the majority of the returns with 15 on the season. He's averaging 19.3 yards per with a long of 32. Minor has had 8 shots at it and is averaging 19.9 yards with a long of 35. Brown and Minor aren't technically "returning starters", but hey have seen a lot of action on the offensive side of the ball that they have had that game experience and been in the line of fire. So the number of returning starters is misleading.
Return Game Rating: B-
Head-to-Head: Brian Hartline, Ray Small and Brandon Saine vs. Carlos Brown, Brandon Harrison, Junior Hemingway and Brandon Minor.
Neither of these squads has torn it up. OSU is having a down year other than Hartline and Michigan has been nothing more than steady. I am sure they are just starting Harrison to try and provide a spark for the game.
Edge: Even
Overall Special Teams Analysis
These guys are not short on talent, thanks in part to the great state of Ohio, but, surprisingly the most production of the special teams has been from the kickers despite the playmakers Michigan has back returning the ball. I just hope it doesn't catch up this Saturday.
Overall Special Teams Rating: B
Predictions
BB73's prediction: 35-31, Ohio State
BuckeyeRyn's prediction: 28-21, Ohio State
Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 34-17, Ohio State
Bucklion's prediction: 24-23, Ohio State
DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 24-13, Ohio State
daddyphatsac's prediction: 27-13, Ohio State
Hubbard's prediction: 27-26, Ohio State
jwinslow's prediction: 31-24, Ohio State
OSUBucks22's prediction: 31-20, Ohio State
OSUsushichic's prediction: 28-24, Ohio State
3yardsandacloud's prediction: 27-24, Ohio State
Previous Game's Results (OSU 21 - Illinois 28)
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.)
(0, 29, 15, 22, 14, 18, 9, 14, 1, 5, 28 = 162) OSUSushichic's prediction: 31-10, Ohio State (10 + 18 = 28 + 134 last week)
(1, 19, 10, 18, 15, 18, 7, 18, 24, 11, 31 = 172) OSUBucks22's: 34-10, Ohio State (13 + 18 = 31 + 141 last week)
(4, 29, 9, 23, 17, 27, 10, 10, 18, 15, 24 = 176) BB73's prediction: 27-10, Ohio State (6 + 18 = 24 + 152 last week)
(11, 14, 10, 12, 21, 22, 9, 8, 18, 14, 43 = 182) DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 42-6, Ohio State (21 + 22 = 43 + 139 last week)
(7, 25, 14, 40, 11, 22, 17, 10, 13, 14, 18 = 191) Buckeyeryn's prediction: 24-13, Ohio State (3 + 15 = 18 + 173 last week)
(2, 22, 18, 28, 17, 23, 13, 14, 23, 8, 33 = 191) 3yardsandacloud's prediction: 38-12, Ohio State (17 + 16 = 33 + 158 last week)
(10, 30, 15, 25, 19, DNP (28), 15, 13, 21, 1, 23 = 200) jwinslow's prediction: 33-17, Ohio State (12 + 11 = 23 + 177 last week)
(0, 33, 17, 25, 14, 21, 21, 15, 34, 14, 25 = 209) Hubbard's prediction: 31-13, Ohio State (10 + 15 = 25 + 184 last week)
(7, 22, 12, DNP (40), DNP (22), 28, 9, 7, 21, 15, 28 = 211) daddyphatsac's prediction: 34-13, Ohio State (13 + 15 = 28 + 183 last week)
(17, 22, 16, 27, 22, 28, 13, 11, 18, 11, DNP = 228) Bucklion's prediction: DNP, Ohio State (DNP = 43 + 185 last week)
(16, 33, 10, 28, 19, 25, 17, 21, 13, 11, 35 = 228) Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 38-10, Ohio State (17 + 18 = 35 + 193 last week)
Adjusted scores for weeks missed. Participant must take the highest score from the week they missed:
BuckeyeRyn's prediction: 28-21, Ohio State
Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 34-17, Ohio State
Bucklion's prediction: 24-23, Ohio State
DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 24-13, Ohio State
daddyphatsac's prediction: 27-13, Ohio State
Hubbard's prediction: 27-26, Ohio State
jwinslow's prediction: 31-24, Ohio State
OSUBucks22's prediction: 31-20, Ohio State
OSUsushichic's prediction: 28-24, Ohio State
3yardsandacloud's prediction: 27-24, Ohio State
Previous Game's Results (OSU 21 - Illinois 28)
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.)
(0, 29, 15, 22, 14, 18, 9, 14, 1, 5, 28 = 162) OSUSushichic's prediction: 31-10, Ohio State (10 + 18 = 28 + 134 last week)
(1, 19, 10, 18, 15, 18, 7, 18, 24, 11, 31 = 172) OSUBucks22's: 34-10, Ohio State (13 + 18 = 31 + 141 last week)
(4, 29, 9, 23, 17, 27, 10, 10, 18, 15, 24 = 176) BB73's prediction: 27-10, Ohio State (6 + 18 = 24 + 152 last week)
(11, 14, 10, 12, 21, 22, 9, 8, 18, 14, 43 = 182) DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 42-6, Ohio State (21 + 22 = 43 + 139 last week)
(7, 25, 14, 40, 11, 22, 17, 10, 13, 14, 18 = 191) Buckeyeryn's prediction: 24-13, Ohio State (3 + 15 = 18 + 173 last week)
(2, 22, 18, 28, 17, 23, 13, 14, 23, 8, 33 = 191) 3yardsandacloud's prediction: 38-12, Ohio State (17 + 16 = 33 + 158 last week)
(10, 30, 15, 25, 19, DNP (28), 15, 13, 21, 1, 23 = 200) jwinslow's prediction: 33-17, Ohio State (12 + 11 = 23 + 177 last week)
(0, 33, 17, 25, 14, 21, 21, 15, 34, 14, 25 = 209) Hubbard's prediction: 31-13, Ohio State (10 + 15 = 25 + 184 last week)
(7, 22, 12, DNP (40), DNP (22), 28, 9, 7, 21, 15, 28 = 211) daddyphatsac's prediction: 34-13, Ohio State (13 + 15 = 28 + 183 last week)
(17, 22, 16, 27, 22, 28, 13, 11, 18, 11, DNP = 228) Bucklion's prediction: DNP, Ohio State (DNP = 43 + 185 last week)
(16, 33, 10, 28, 19, 25, 17, 21, 13, 11, 35 = 228) Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 38-10, Ohio State (17 + 18 = 35 + 193 last week)
Adjusted scores for weeks missed. Participant must take the highest score from the week they missed:
