Michigan vs. Oregon Preview & Predictions: How Wolverines Can Upset No. 1 Ducks

There is a lot going on in the world of Michigan football, whether it’s the Bryce Underwood rumors, the Wolverines’ 24-17 victory over Michigan State last week, and another postgame incident with the Spartans. Lest we forget, the Wolverines must face their strongest task yet on Saturday: The No. 1 Oregon Ducks.

Every week, we preview Michigan’s opponent and explain what they need to do to win. Facing an Oregon team with arguably the most balance in the country made this week difficult.

Check out our Michigan vs. Oregon predictions, preview and more below. 👇

Michigan vs. Oregon At A Glance

Take a look at the most important metrics in college football to get a birds’ eye view of how your Michigan vs Oregon predictions look on paper.

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Michigan Injury Report vs Oregon

Our Key Matchup: Oregon’s Offense vs Michigan’s Defense

The Ducks give you a little bit of everything on offense. The guys from Eugene rank 11th in total offense this season. To compare to the rest of the Big Ten, Indiana and Ohio State rank higher at six and nine. Penn State ranks 13th.

The stellar, Heisman caliber passing threat that is Dillon Gabriel has been one of the most prolific quarterbacks this season, adding to his record breaking career. This season Gabriel is eight in passing with 2,371 yards and 18 touchdowns.

To Gabriel’s left and right out wide, a slue of talented receivers that can do it all. It stars with All-American Tez Johnson. One of the quickest, most versatile players in the game. This season he and Gabriel, in their first season as a tandem, have hooked up for 638 yards and 8 touchdowns. Next, Texas A&M transfer Evan Stewart was the #1 receiver in the class of 2022, and disappointed in his time at College Station. He flocked to the Pacific Northwest and has revived the expectations that his young career once held. Michigan fans can thank him for his tremendous efforts against Ohio State on Oct. 12 in which he had seven catches for 145 yards and a score.

Oregon’s Depth Is Serious

Plus, Oregon will work in Alabama transfer Traeshon Holden and tight ends Terrance Ferguson and Patrick Herbert.
What’s crazy is that there has been no mention of the run game. Jordan James and Noah Whittington are just as vital as the receivers. James is the third best statistical running back in the Big Ten, just behind Kaleb Johnson and Kyle Monangai.

This is why Oregon being in the Big Ten is so unique. This conference is uncharted territory for a pass first offense. While Ohio State will always have the best receiving room in the conference talent wise, it’s a lot more dependent on it’s backs.

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Why This Game Comes Down to Michigan’s 3rd Down Defense

Stemming from last weeks performance, the Wolverines cannot miss tackles. Way too many were missed on Nate Carter and Kayron Lynch-Adams.

Secondly, Michigan’s strengths need to shine so the Ducks do not exploit the weaknesses. The defensive line needs to shut down the constant threat of Gabriel. Whether thats giving him time in the pocket or extending plays beyond the pocket.

Last and certainly not least, probably the most important, if Michigan wants any chance at winning, they must get off the field on third down. It’s arguably been the biggest complaint with first year defensive coordinator Wink Martindale.

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Michigan vs. Oregon Predictions

Vegas’ Prediction: Oregon to win by 14+

Our Prediction: Oregon to win by 6+

How Michigan Can Upset Oregon

While we’re not hopeful, there’s still a chance for Michigan to beat Oregon. After all, they have no shortage on talent. However, they are dealing with a bevy of injuries, including both starting cornerbacks.

Still, if the Wolverines can find a way to limit the big plays, which will be arguably its biggest task coming into a game this season, perhaps the offense can remain cohesive enough to put enough points on the board to win the game.

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