Preview: Michigan vs. UNLV
Rush Offense vs. UNLV Rush Defense
After a solid performance against Oregon State, Michigan is still only #87 nationally with 151 yards/game on the ground. Meanwhile, the 3.91 yards/carry ranks them #90 in the country. Bruising running back De’Veon Smith leads the team in rushing and has received more than 50% of the carries, and backup Ty Isaac has averaged 4.7 yards/carry so far. The Wolverines have stayed healthy on the offensive line so far, and Michigan’s line may have reinforced its confidence with last week’s dominant effort. On the other side, UNLV is #115 in rushing defense (229 yards allowed/game) and tied for #111 in yards allowed/carry (5.15). Those numbers have come against Northern Illinois and UCLA. The Rebels have pretty good size on the interior with 330 and 310 lb. starting defensive tackles, but they are a little light at weakside end (Mark Finau is 6’3″, 230 lbs.) and strongside linebacker (Matt Lea is 5’10”, 215 lbs.). The leading tackler is strong safety Peni Vea, and weakside linebacker Tau Lotulelei leads his unit with 2.5 tackles for loss. With Michigan’s emphasis on the running game and a running back who can run through his fair share of tackles, it would be very disappointing if the Wolverines don’t win this matchup.
Advantage: Michigan
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