Week 2 Colossal Matchup – Previewing Texas Vs. Michigan

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you know that the biggest game of the regular season will take place this Saturday in Ann Arbor in Texas Vs. Michigan. The #3 Texas Longhorns travel to The Big House to take on the #10 ranked Michigan Wolverines. In a game that’s been debated on since the turn of the decade, only one can come out on top in a matchup that will have CFP implications like no other.

Defending the Big House

Michigan’s last game against Fresno State was anything but ideal for the Wolverines. Fresh off of a National Title season that saw stars such as JJ McCarthy and Heisman contender Blake Corum leave for the NFL, there was expected to be a dropoff. But for a team with title aspirations once again, a 13-3 game in the 4th quarter is unacceptable.

The Quarterback situation seems to be the most of the Wolverines worries. Davis Warren, in a surprise decision, was named the starter over Alex Orji. His stat line was less than impressive, going 15-25 for 118 yards, 1 TD, and 1 INT.

The other cause for concern rested in Michigan’s powerful run game, or at least, what we expected to be. Star RB Donovan Edwards struggled to get anything going after catching a short touchdown pass from Orji early in the game. On 11 attempts, he had just 27 yards of total production.

Kalel Mullings on the other hand, stole the show offensively for the Wolverines. He nearly broke the century mark, having the longest offensive play of the day for 21 yards, having 15 rushes for 91 yards.

Defensively for the Wolverines, there was a hot start as new starter Zeke Berry intercepted a pass on Fresno State’s first drive of the game. Possibly the biggest surprise was the best DB in the nation getting burned considerably, as Will Johnson struggled to keep up with the Bulldogs WRs. This CB/WR matchup will be key in Texas Vs. Michigan.

How Texas Performed Last Week

Texas opened their 2024 season in dominant fashion, shutting out Colorado State 52-0 at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium.

Despite some initial struggles, including a turnover from starting quarterback Quinn Ewers in the first quarter, Texas quickly found their rhythm. Ewers bounced back, finishing the game with 260 passing yards and three touchdowns. Arch Manning, the highly anticipated freshman, entered the game in the third quarter, impressively throwing for a touchdown and running one in himself. Notably, Matthew Golden was a key offensive contributor, catching two touchdown passes.

As the game progressed, the Longhorns’ offense showcased their depth and versatility. Running back Quintrevion Wisner opened the scoring with a 3-yard touchdown rush in the first quarter, and freshman running back Jerrick Gibson added to the effort with a third-quarter rushing touchdown.

Defensively, Texas suffocated Colorado State’s offense, shutting down their passing game and putting relentless pressure on their quarterback, Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi. The Rams were unable to convert key opportunities, including several failed fourth-down attempts, setting up a huge question mark for Michigan in the Texas Vs. Michigan offensive/defensive matchup.

What It All Means

Although the Longhorns are favored entering Saturday, I wouldn’t pick against the defending National Champions for anything. The key matchups to watch will be how Michigan’s offense performs against a power defense. If they can get things going, watch out.

The other matchup to watch is Quinn Ewers vs. Will Johnson. If the All-American corner can make his presence felt, it’ll be a long day for Ewers. With already one interception on the year, it’ll be interesting to see if he can step up his game after early struggles.

Texas Vs. Michigan Watchability: 10/10