Photo by Aaron J. Thornton/Getty Images

On the road, down one point and approaching four minutes left in the game, Michigan was poised to take the lead with a chip shot field goal… until the team’s fifth turnover happened. Northwestern recovered the ball with a chance to end the game if they could run out the clock, but Michigan’s defense stepped up. They got the ball back for the offense and one last chance at the win. Dominic Zvada kicked a 31-yard field goal as time expired, and the Wolverines kept alive their hopes for the College Football Playoff (CFP).  

Michigan’s fifth turnover could have broken the team, but even after so much went wrong all game, they found a way to win. They showed perseverance, a clutch gene, never say die determination and the heart of a champion. With the 24-22 win over Northwestern, Michigan still has a chance to earn its way into the playoffs. With its dynamic running game and stout defense, anything can happen after that. 

A visit to Maryland is next. The 4-6 Terps are talented, but they are the opposite of Michigan. Maryland seemingly finds new ways to lose each week even when they have leads late in games. Calls for the coach to be replaced are becoming increasingly louder. Michigan must take the Terps seriously and not overlook them for their next game, but the Wolverines should notch a convincing win. 

That next game is a doozy. Michigan ends the regular season hosting the #1 team in nation, hated rival Ohio State. Win that game, and a spot in the College Football Playoff is assured. Michigan would be a top 10 team if it wins out. 

The number one thing Michigan must do to punch its ticket to the CFP is get better quarterback play. They don’t need a Heisman-level performance by Bryce Underwood, but it’s been nearly a month since he’s thrown a touchdown. Maybe Maryland will be a get right game for the quarterback. The team is 93rd nationally in total defense and has given up 17 passing touchdowns this season. Watch out, though. They have also intercepted 17 passes in 2025. 

Maryland might also be a game to rest stud running back Jordan Marshall. Save him for Ohio State. Let the shoulder injury heal for two weeks. After Marshall’s 20 touches for 150 yards and two touchdowns against Northwestern, Michigan Head Coach Sherrone Moore said the injury is not serious. Per Maize N Brew, Moore said of Marshall: 

“Just got X-rays. Feels like he’s in a good place. He’s gonna get a nice ice bath. Make sure he gets the best masseuse in town.” 

Michigan can beat Ohio State if the team is able to get 30 touches from Marshall. 

Looking ahead at the matchup, Ohio State has the top ranked defense in points and yards allowed in all of college football. Teams often must play from behind and turn to passing the ball. Michigan is built different. Pound the ball. Break the Buckeyes. 

The Wolverines also have the defense to keep the game low-scoring. While Ohio State can boast the ninth best scoring offense in college football, at 35.7 points per game, Michigan’s defense ranks 12th in the nation in points given up, at only 17.2 per game. 

First, take care of Maryland. Then, with a rested Marshall, grind away to victory at home against Ohio State. 

Great things are still possible this season for the Michigan Wolverines after their last second win over Northwestern. 

Buckle up. This should be a wild ride. 

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