Ohio State Football: Michigan Expert’s take on ‘The Game’

It’s the final game of the regular season and that means ‘The Game’ is on. Ohio State and Michigan will soon battle with plenty on the line.

I have a good idea about how Ohio State football fans feel heading into the matchup but I always like to know what Michigan fans are thinking before the big game. GBM Wolverine Expert Chris Peterson has always been great about sharing his thoughts and was gracious once again.

I think you will enjoy this Q&A with Chris.

Q:  What is the feeling surrounding the Michigan football program and fanbase heading into ‘The Game’?.

Chris:  I would say there is cautious optimism. It’s clear that Harbaugh has things headed in the right direction. The four game winning steak and dominant wins over Notre Dame and Michigan State have people believing the Wolverines have a chance. But if they don’t, especially depending on how it goes, that could change. But right now, fans feel good.

Q:  After a slow start Michigan is playing the kind of football most expected to see all season. Can you explain what turned things around?

Chris:  It was a lot of things. One was getting healthy. Shea Patterson didn’t start the year right. That and learning a new system limited him. The guys were thinking too much and were making simple mistakes. Getting their best offensive lineman and Donovan Peoples-Jones healthy which they weren’t for Wisconsin was big too. Cam McGrone and Daxton Hill are you impact players on defense that didn’t play much early and new OC Josh Gattis has hit his stride. But overall, Harbaugh did a great job keeping this team together. They never pointed fingers and never quit, even after getting knocked out of Big Ten race.

Q:  What do the Wolverines have to do to defeat the Buckeyes?

Chris:  They have to stop the run. They can’t let Dobbins run all over or they will have zero shot stopping Fields. I’d also say winning the turnover battle and getting off to a decent start. Last year it was 14-0 in a blink. If that happens again, the doubt will creep in and that will be it.

Q:  Often a player who is a little under the radar makes a big impact in ‘The Game’ like Chris Olave did for the Buckeyes last year. Are there Wolverines who fit that mold Buckeye fans should keep their eyes on?.

Chris:  Khaleke Hudson. He’s been a terror blocking punts and he’s a very good defender too. I feel like a big play on special teams could help Michigan so watch for that or Giles Jackson returning kicks.

Q:  Ohio State has been strong on both sides of the ball this season so what are the particular concerns for Michigan fans?.

Chris:  I think not allowing Chase Young to takeover the game is one thing. Another is not letting Fields be in manageable situations all game. That will be a killer. Him running too.

Q:   I have to ask this question because many think this is a must-win game for Jim Harbaugh if he is to keep his job. Could that be the case or is it just outside noise?

Chris:  He’s safe. I’d say there is zero percent chance he gets fired. The team, even with a loss will have a chance for 10 wins for the 4th time in five years. That’s good, even for Michigan. The Wolverines are as good as any Big Ten program not named Ohio State. Michigan has beaten 4 top-15 teams the last two seasons. I get it. I want them to beat OSU too. But the Buckeyes have been on a historic run and I’m sure not sure what coach would be better.

Q:  How do you see the game playing out and what is your final score?

Chris:  I think it’s like the 2016 game. Defenses dominate just not as much. Both Patterson and Fields play well. I actually believe Michigan could grab the lead at some point. But I won’t believe a win until I see it. I think Fields takes over with his legs and wins it late. Heartbreak city.

There you have it, a view from someone who follows the Michigan football program closely. I want to thank by buddy Chris for taking time to give me his perspective. See, fans of opposing teams in this great rivalry can be friends, all but one day every year.