Back in the summer when we previewed Miami, it appeared as though they would have a strong defense on the strength of three returning seniors, all of whom are all-conference candidates in the MAC. The offense didn’t look quite as strong, with something of a quarterback controversy going on. After the loss to Vanderbilt, we weren’t quite sure what to think, because nobody carries ESPNU. However, we relied on Dan Kukla of The Miami Student to fill us in on what we had missed.
Vanderbilt took Miami behind the woodshed, and the RedHawks weren’t even competitve against the SEC bottom-dweller. The defense did not perform as expected, and the offense languished under the guidance of Daniel Radabough.
One thing that Kukla specifically pointed out was that Vanderbilt’s “SEC Speed” was apparent against the RedHawks. Of course, I’m personally of the opinion that “SEC Speed,” aside from not really existing, certainly doesn’t aply to the Commodores. That said, Michigan’s athletes, position-for-position, were all more highly recruited out of high school than were Vandy’s, and Michigan has a decided speed advantage at every position as well. This doesn’t bode well for Miami.
However, the speed means nothing if Michigan fails, as it did against Utah, to get athletes into space. The offensive line has to protect the quarterback(s) and make holes in the running game. Brandon Minor being healthy enough to get full prctice reps this week should make him the starter, and give a little stability to the UM offense.
On the other side of the ball, MIchigan’s defense is facing a much limper test than it was last week against the Utes. Assuming there isn’t as much of a first-half struggle to get into the game, this defense should be able to dominate a weaker opponent.
Predictions:
Michigan’s defense will take out revenge for their first-half struggles last week by dominating the RedHawks.
Michigan’s offense will be able to move the ball more effectively, with Steven Threet starting at QB.
Martavious Odoms and Brandon Minor will both have at least one touchdown.
There will be a big play for Michigan on special teams.
The Wolverines win, 24-3.
Posted under Analysis
Tags: miami, preview
after watching vandy play again last night (i get ESPNU), they’re speed is more your typical mythical SEC speed. They had at least two guys that appeared to have percy harvin/trindon holliday speed. Their quarterback looked just as good against the RedHawks as he did the Gamecocks last night. Their defense is a little suspect, but their offense looked “damn strong.” I think the whole mobile qb, skill speed, and option oriented offense doesn’t really show us too much of what to expect against our offense.
I guess vandy might not be so bad…win over S carolina
I’ve heard that some Miami alumni chapters are planning to watch the game at Ohio State bars to get a little more support. But after watching the depressing first half of the game last week, I don’t think Michigan has much to worry about.
Rivals just broke that Campbell opened his search and is no longer committed.