Outlook and predictions for the Big Ten East Division
By Griffin Hill
![GLENDALE, AZ - DECEMBER 31: Quarterback J.T. Barrett GLENDALE, AZ - DECEMBER 31: Quarterback J.T. Barrett](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/3382a5582e13988f4fb18d54b58371fc07eeb1a56add35efd3ea7a2d2ea94fef.jpg)
STATE COLLEGE, PA – NOVEMBER 21: Jim Harbaugh head coach of the Michigan Wolverines during the game against the Penn State Nittany Lions at Beaver Stadium on November 21, 2015 in State College, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Evan Habeeb/Getty Images)
Michigan:
2016: 3rd in BIG Ten East
2017 Prediction: More of the same for the Wolverines, another 3rd place finish.
The team from that state up North is a top 10 team in the country and on the rise, thanks to none other than Mr. Jim Harbaugh. Michigan was an overtime loss away from a probable playoff spot in 2016 and wants nothing more than to reach that mark this season.
In recent history Ohio State has dominated the Wolverines, and that seems like the hump Harbaugh’s squad needs to get over. However, I do not believe Ohio State is Michigan’s only big test this season.
A battle versus Florida at a neutral location is a scary week one matchup for Michigan. And so are road games at both Penn State And Wisconsin.
If Michigan can produce a 10 win regular season they will give themselves a chance to play in the BIG Ten Championship Game. But with one of the toughest schedules in the country, I don’t see it happening.
I have Michigan finishing at 9-3 just like Michigan State, resulting in another year of them not getting over the hump to compete for a BIG Ten or national championship.