Three matchups to watch: Michigan

We’ve reached the thick part of the Big Ten schedule for the year. Northwestern fans would’ve hoped the team would be at least 2-1 entering the contest, but losses to Akron and Duke have curbed the team’s momentum. Further, news of Jeremy Larkin’s retirement from football shocked the NU community and program. Nonetheless, this week Northwestern will take on No. 14 Michigan , fresh off of a 56-10 walloping of Nebraska. Here are three matchups that could have a sizeable impact on the outcome of the game.

After coming to Michigan on a transfer from Ole Miss, Shea Patterson assumed the role of Michigan’s offensive messiah. The team has always lacked solid quarterback play under Harbaugh, and…