Michigan Daily: Article by Ian Robinson and Nate Sandals

Breakdown: Michigan vs. Illinois

By Ian Robinson and Nate Sandals
Daily Sports Editor

Michigan rushing offense versus Illinois rushing defense

If you just go by the stats, this is a battle of mediocrity. The Michigan rushing offense ranks 10th in the Big Ten. The Fighting Illini hold the same ranking in rushing defense.
But the Wolverines have shown plenty of potential in the ground game. If it can find a rhythm, Michigan has a chance to change the game with its rushing attack.

Expect to see more of Brandon Minor this week after his solid performance against Wisconsin. Sam McGuffie will continue to get the most carries for the Wolverines and Michael Shaw should be at or near 100 percent for the first time since the season opener.

Should Michigan establish the running game, they'll likely have more success in putting drives together. And should the Wolverines get in trouble, Illinois' poor defense may bail them out, allowing teams to convert 42 percent of the time on third down.

Edge: Michigan

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