Michigan Wolverines: Strengths and Weaknesses

Anticipation is in the air as the NCAA playoffs are almost here. Bettors are flocking to see the latest college football bowl odds.

It is not every week that the second-ranked team in the country is a 7.5-point underdog, but that’s the situation that the Michigan Wolverines find themselves in at the 2021 Orange Bowl.

Read on for a comprehensive breakdown of the Wolverines. Explore an analysis of Michigan’s offensive and defensive output this season.

Orange Bowl Game Information

Before diving into the Wolverines’ season, here is what you need to know about the 2021 Orange Bowl:

• Date: Friday, December 31st
• Time: 7:30 P.M. EST
• Venue: Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, FL
• Participants: Georgia and Michigan

Wolverines’ Offense

Michigan scores nearly 38 points per game, which is 13th in the nation.

Few teams in the country pound the rock better than the Wolverines. They rush for over 223 yards per game, which is good for the top ten nationwide. On a per attempt basis, the team averages 5.3 yards per rush.

Hassan Haskins leads the rushing attack. The Wolverines’ star running back produced nearly 1,300 yards on the ground this season.

Haskins added an impressive 20 rushing touchdowns over 13 games. Sophomore running back Blake Corum also rushed for 939 yards and 11 touchdowns.

Quarterback Cade McNamara is capable if Georgia stifles the running game. McNamara passed for nearly 2,500 yards and added 15 touchdowns through the air. He’s shown he’s able to make big plays when called upon, like his 255-yard performance against Nebraska earlier this season and his 383 yards against Michigan State in Michigan’s only loss.

However, he hasn’t had to put up big numbers often this year. McNamara didn’t have to shoulder the offensive load this season. He averages fewer than 24 passing attempts per game. Haskins and Corum have over 100 more touches than McNamara has passing attempts.

Wolverines’ Defense

While the offense is good, Michigan’s defense is even better. They are fourth in the nation, allowing just 16.1 points per game.

The strength of the defense lies in the pass rush. Led by Aidan Hutchinson, the Wolverines produced 31 sacks on the season. Hutchinson was responsible for 14 of those sacks and might be a top pick in the 2022 NFL draft.

David Ojabo is another star for the Wolverines’ defense. Ojabo tallied 11 sacks on the season and forced five fumbles as well.

As far as weaknesses go, Michigan does not produce many turnovers. The Wolverines’ defense only forced 16 turnovers, which is 63rd.

Michigan Wolverines’ Strengths and Weaknesses

Going into the Orange Bowl this week, there is no question that Michigan is a solid team. They have an incredible pass rush and run the ball exceptionally well.

However, the Michigan Wolverines are not without question marks. They do not produce many turnovers on defense to add extra opportunities for the offense.

Do you like the Wolverines’ chances of winning a national title? Why not make a wager with the best Michigan sports betting site? Create a BetMGM account today and receive a risk-free initial bet worth up to $1,000.