The Washington Huskies Look to Keep Rolling in Ann Arbor
The Washington Huskies look to secure their second conference road win when they head to Ann Arbor for a 9:00 a.m. PST kickoff. The Huskies aim to make it two straight victories over the Michigan Wolverines after defeating the then–No. 10 Wolverines last season at Husky Stadium.
It’s clear that both teams have addressed major weaknesses over the offseason. Washington has significantly improved its offensive line, earning recognition from the Joe Moore Award Committee on its midseason honor roll. Meanwhile, Michigan has upgraded its quarterback room with the addition of true freshman Bryce Underwood.
The Wolverines return to the friendly confines of Michigan Stadium after a 31–13 loss at the Coliseum to USC. The defeat knocked them out of the top 25 but marked just their first conference loss of the season.
This matchup will play a major role in keeping each team’s playoff hopes alive. While both remain dark horse candidates for a top-12 playoff bid, a second conference loss would be difficult to overcome.
Matchup to Watch: Washington’s D-Line vs. Michigan’s Running Game
The Huskies have done an excellent job in recent weeks of shutting down opposing rushing attacks before they can get going. After giving up a 51-yard run to Antwan Raymond, the defensive line held him to just 38 yards on his next 14 carries (2.7 yards per carry).
Michigan needs to establish the run to beat anyone, especially as it brings its young quarterback along. Underwood is completing 59% of his passes and relies on an effective ground game to open up throwing lanes and build confidence. The Wolverines are hoping for a healthier Justice Haynes, who was held under 100 yards rushing against USC.
Prediction
Washington’s defensive line does enough to force Underwood to win the game through the air—a matchup that heavily favors the Husky secondary. Demond Williams Jr. keeps the Wolverine defense on its heels and makes the key plays needed to get out of Ann Arbor with another win.
Prediction: Washington 24, Michigan 13
