Michigan hosts Maryland in a new battle of Big Ten teams, as the Terrapins will face the Wolverines for the first time since joining the conference. Michigan is looking to become bowl eligible with a victory.
Records:
Michigan: 5-5 (3-3 Big Ten)
Maryland: 6-4 (3-3 Big Ten)
Last Meeting: These teams have only met three times, the most recent coming in 1990.
Michigan Outlook: The Wolverines have won two straight and are making a run at bowl eligibility as the season winds down.
Quarterback Devin Gardner had a subpar game against Northwestern, throwing two interceptions and completing just 11 passes. There is speculation that Gardner has been playing injured, and performances like that tend to support that notion.
Running back Derrick Green is expected to miss this game, with De'Veon Smith continuing to carry the load.
Maryland Outlook: The Terrapins are a new part of the Big Ten conference, and have gone 3-3 in their inaugural season. Maryland hasn't faced Michigan in over 20 years, so this game is the start of a new matchup between these teams.
Top receiver Stefon Diggs could miss this game, which would hamper a Maryland offense that has tailed off its production as the season has gone on.
They have not scored more than 20 points in three straight games, but the team as a whole has played very well on the road, with their only loss coming at Wisconsin.
What to watch for: The health of Gardner could be a concern for Michigan. They snuck out a win over Northwestern last week, but the offense must play much better if they expect a victory in this game.
Gardner will be a huge part of the outcome of this game, but playing at less than 100 percent could prove costly for his performance.
What they're saying:
Green remains unlikely for matchup with Maryland (Maize and Blue)
5 things to watch: who replaces Frank Clark; is Gardner healthy? (Mlive.com)
Prediction:
Michigan - 27, Marlyand - 23
In an evenly matched game, Michigan has the edge thanks to playing at home. A chance to salvage a bowl game despite their struggles this season should be extra motivation for the Wolverines in this game.
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