The Indiana Hoosiers are in bounce back mode after losing to Ohio State this past weekend. But the Cream and Crimson have little time to dwell on the loss, as a tough road matchup against the Michigan Wolverines awaits them in Week 8.
Kyle Whittingham's first season in Ann Arbor has been a wild roller coaster so far, but the Maize and Blue may have figured some things out over its bye week and in last week's win over Penn State. The Wolverines enter this matchup with renewed hope thanks to QB Tommy Carr, and the defense remains among the best in the country.
Here are three things that make Michigan a daunting matchup for Indiana this Saturday afternoon.
1. Michigan has a nasty, physical run defense
The Michigan defense is great all-around, but it is especially stout against the run. The Wolverines are allowing just 89.7 rushing yards per game, as well as a measly 2.7 yards per rush to their opponents. They rank 13 nationally in run defense, which is sure to give Indiana's running game plenty of challenges.
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The Indiana running game has struggled mightily over the last two weeks. The Hoosiers managed a season-low 65 rushing yards and 3.0 yards per carry against Nebraska, and totaled just 73 rushing yards and 2.5 yards per carry against Ohio State. Things won't get any easier for Indiana on the road against Michigan in this matchup.
2. Tommy Carr raises Michigan's offensive ceiling
Bryce Underwood has failed to take a big step in his development this season, which has led the Michigan offense to some putrid numbers. After going 5-for-11 for 43 yards with no touchdowns and a pair of interceptions in the first half against Penn State in Week 7, Underwood was benched. Tommy Carr took over, and the Wolverine offense instantly started playing better.
Carr led Michigan to touchdowns on two of his first three drives, and put the game on ice with a 12-yard rushing touchdown late in the 4th quarter. A 6'4" 195-pound true freshman, Carr is a dual-threat, pro-spread signal-caller who raises Michigan's offensive ceiling substantially. He has already been named as Michigan's QB1 for Saturday, and presents a tough matchup for the IU defense.
3. The Big House presents a major home field advantage
Michigan Stadium, aka "The Big House," is among the toughest places to play in all of college football. This will be Indiana's first time making the trip to The Big House during the Curt Cignetti era. Indiana's last trip to Ann Arbor came in October 2023, when Michigan defeated IU 52-7. A lot has changed since then, but playing on the road at Michigan is always a challenge. The atmosphere is sure to be rocking, and it's imperative that the Hoosiers stay calm and poised in order to put forth a winning effort.
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