Coming off a big win over rival Notre Dame, the Michigan Wolverines look to improve their record to 3-0 against Akron. The Zips travel to Ann Arbor for a 12:01 kickoff in what will be their first meeting in the history of these football programs.
Akron Breakdown:
The Zips broke a 10-game losing streak dating back to last season in their week one victory over James Madison 35-33. However, they head into their meeting with the Michigan Wolverines after suffering an embarrassing 38-7 defeat to Central Florida.
Nick Hirschman and Kyle Pohl should both see time under center. However, Pohl is the primary quarterback and should see the majority of the snaps against Michigan. Connor Hundley, Jawon Chisolm and D.J. Jones have all shared time in the backfield and are capable of carrying the load for the Akron offense, but they will find the Michigan Wolverines defense much more difficult than their previous competition.
Michigan Wolverines players to look for:
Michigan, being a heavy favorite, should control the contest from beginning to end and have the opportunity to get many players game experience before their conference schedule begins. Of course we know the names Gardner, Gallon and Toussaint, but here are some names to look for against the Zips.
#7 Shane Morris, Freshman Quarterback
Morris was a highly-touted recruit and has earned his spot as the second-string-quarterback behind Gardner. Morris saw time in Michigan’s week one victory over Central Michigan going 4/6 for 59 yards and an interception. Look for Morris to get plenty of time in the second half.
#27 Derrick Green, Freshman Running back
Green, ranked the top running back in his recruiting class, also saw time in the victory over Central Michigan rushing for 58 yards on 11 carries. Although his time was greatly shortened against Notre Dame (1 carry for -1 yards), look for Green to see plenty of time against Akron. The Wolverines will depend on him this season as a solid backup to Toussaint.
Receivers Jehu Chesson, Dennis Norfleet, and tight end Jake Butt have all seen time, but have not yet had the opportunity to get a number of passes their way. It will be important to get as many receivers involved as possible, as it always is, before a deep receiving corps is needed late in the season.
Brutally Honest Prediction: This game should be over rather quickly. The Michigan offense should jump out to an early lead and be able to coast the rest of the way. Expect a 35-7 lead at halftime. The offensive second team will most likely have a few scores in the second half with the defensive backups allowing a few Akron scores. Final score, 56-17 Michigan Wolverines.