Michigan football vs. Washington predictions for Big Ten play

Rainer Sabin

Nearly nine months ago, the Wolverines ran over the Huskies to win the CFP title. A lot has changed since then, which explains why an unranked Washington team with two losses, a different coaching staff and a roster full of new faces is the favorite to beat No. 10 Michigan. The Wolverines didn't inspire much confidence in the first month of the season, despite winning four of their first five games. Their passing offense, which averages 115.4 yards per game through the air, is dead last among Power Four teams and has made Michigan one-dimensional.

Expect Washington defensive coordinator Steve Belichick — son of NFL legend Bill — to find a way to beat the Wolverines at deafening Husky Stadium in UM's first test of the season. After all, the Huskies have allowed just 12.4 points per game and have a top-10 defense. The choice: Washington 23, AT 17.

Jeff Seidel

That's the same score by which Rutgers beat Washington in New Jersey last week. And Michigan will try to do the same as Rutgers, which ran for 184 yards against Washington. The Wolverines should be able to move the ball on the ground, too, but when the Wolverines need him most — when they need to do something through the air — he'll come back and get them in the… well, you know. The choice: Washington 21, AT 18.

Shawn Windsor

Make it a second straight win for the Wolverines, who defeated the Huskies in January with much more on the line. Both programs lost talent to the NFL and coaches to other teams. UM could have a leg up when it comes to remaining talent, and certainly on defense. The current game will be just enough to win again. The choice: AT 19, Washington 16.