Simulation Picks
Maximize Your Odds of Winning with SportsLine Model and Our Top-Rated Picks!
Maximize Your Odds of Winning with SportsLine Model and Our Top-Rated Picks!
Maximize Your Odds of Winning with SportsLine Model and Our Top-Rated Picks!
Expert Picks
Unless something about Michigan has drastically changed in the offseason, of which I would not be aware, this game should be no worse than a pick 'em considering Minnesota is hosting. The Golden Gophers have a full set of offensive weapons that should have it pushing the Wolverines defense to play 60 complete minutes, which means that unit is going to get tired. Meanwhile, Michigan has not been an offensive juggernaut and has shown no signs in the offseason of moving in that direction. Perhaps Jim Harbaugh will prove the detractors wrong, but for now, I'm siding with the known quantity in underrated Minnesota.
When I look at this matchup I see one team with a lot of returning talent on offense and a strong offensive line as an underdog going against an offense that's entirely unproven with a QB making his first career start. Now, Michigan has the defensive advantage here, but considering all the turnover on Michigan's offense, it's hard to trust the Wolverines as a road favorite in this spot. Plus, Minnesota didn't win 11 games by accident. When's the last time Michigan won 11 games?
The wrong team is favored here. Minnesota quarterback Tanner Morgan, wide receiver Rashod Bateman and running back Mohamed Ibrahim are three of the biggest playmakers in the Big Ten, and it’s hard to imagine Michigan’s offense having success in what should be a high-scoring affair. Take the three points but you might want to consider a little money line sprinkle on the Golden Gophers.