12-19-2015, 01:01 PM
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#78
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MVP
OVR: 4
Join Date: Apr 2012
Location: San Antonio, TX
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Re: The Victors Reborn - A Michigan Wolverines Dynasty (NCAA 14)
Season Preview #1: A Look at Michigan's Non-Conference Schedule
Ann Arbor, Michigan - With spring practices coming to a close, Michigan revealed its 2015 schedule. With matchups that look pretty strong on paper, here's a little breakdown of each non-conference game:
Week 1 at Utah
All-Time Head to Head Record: 2-2
Last Meeting: 2014 (Michigan 38, Utah 9)
Location: Rice-Eccles Stadium (Salt Lake City, UT)
Last year, Michigan silenced the critics by smothering Utah, 38-9, in a big defensive effort. Without lead running back Devontae Booker and with quarterback Travis Wilson banged up, Utah failed to stop Michigan's offense and couldn't muster up any points.
This year, Utah returns Travis Wilson (84 OVR) and Devontae Booker (91 OVR). With their skill position players making a marginal improvement, Utah is a tough test for Michigan to start off with in 2015. With Michigan breaking in their true freshman quarterback Eddie Scott, expect a hostile environment and motivated Utah players.
If quarterback Eddie Scott can use his dual-threat ability to stretch the defense out, look for Michigan to have an easier time. Utah is great at stopping the run, and their secondary, spearheaded by corner Dominique Hatfield (84 OVR) isn't no joke either.
Week 2 vs Oregon State
All-Time Head to Head Record: 4-0
Last Meeting: 1986 (Michigan 31, Oregon State 12)
Location: Michigan Stadium (Ann Arbor, MI)
In the teams' first meeting since 1986, Michigan returns back to the Big House to face Oregon State. The second straight Pac-12 team they face, expect some offensive firepower from either side.
Oregon State is somewhat of an enigma, with interesting personnel. They have a great wide receiving corps, as they have Richard Mullaney (85 OVR), Victor Bolden (84 OVR), and Malik Gilmore (80 OVR). With quarterback Sean Mannion having graduated last year, Brent VanderVeen (81 OVR) will be tested with a swarming Michigan defense.
The Beavers have taller receivers, so the height difference may come into play. Michigan's tallest corner is the 6'4" Jeremy Clark, so look for him to try and lock down Jordan Villamin (6'4") and Datrin Guyton (6'5").
Week 3 vs UNLV
All-Time Head to Head Record: 0-0
Last Meeting: FIRST MEETING
Location: Michigan Stadium (Ann Arbor, MI)
In the first meeting between the two teams, Michigan has a weaker opponent in the UNLV Rebels. That's not to say they are a cupcake, though.
Their best player is tight end transfer Matt Sumison (80 OVR). With Michigan's linebacker corps being heavily inexperienced, he could have a big day. Quarterback Blake Decker (75 OVR) can beat teams with either his legs or his arm, and Michigan needs to prepare for it.
With UNLV's defense looking depleted after losing a lot of seniors, Michigan is poised to have a big day on the ground. At this point in the season, Michigan's running game should be clicking, and with the tandem of Derrick Green (90 OVR) and De'Veon Smith (89 OVR), look for Michigan to be run-heavy.
Week 4 vs Brigham Young
All-Time Head to Head Record: 0-1
Last Meeting: 1984 Holiday Bowl (Michigan 17, BYU 24)
Location: Michigan Stadium (Ann Arbor, MI)
Michigan stays home once again in Week 4 to face the BYU Cougars. With one of the toughest defenses in the country and a top-notch running game, this could be Michigan's toughest non-conference game on their schedule.
While prolific starter Taysom Hill graduated, BYU is going to have to rely on sophomore quarterback Hayden Griffits (75 OVR). Their biggest weapon is their running game, as Jamaal Williams (92 OVR) returned for his senior year. If Michigan can't contain Williams, that could spell trouble for the Wolverines.
Another interesting matchup is the Michigan secondary going toe-to-toe with the Cougars' receiving corps. Their leading receiver, Mitch Matthews, is 6'6", while Michigan's lead corner Jourdan Lewis is only 5'10". While Michigan's corners are very athletic, expect some well-fought battles through the air.
Next Week: Biggest Risers, Fallers of Spring Practice
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