The Michigan Wolverines' continued pursuit of the College Football Playoff

Kris Miller

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Why the Michigan Wolverines are still in the hunt for the CFP image

TL;DR

  • Michigan Wolverines ranked 18th in CFP, aiming for playoff with upcoming games against Maryland and Ohio State.
  • The Wolverines have two losses this season, both against playoff-contending teams, Oklahoma and USC.
  • True freshman QB Bryce Underwood shows potential but faces consistency challenges, leaning on running game.
  • Michigan faces a crucial home game against "that team down south" on November 29th.

Ranked 18th in the College Football Playoff standings and fifth in the Big Ten, the Michigan Wolverines still have a chance to make a playoff run. The opportunity to advance hasn't closed yet. 

Following a narrow victory at the storied Wrigley Field against Northwestern, the Wolverines are nearing qualification for the 12-team playoff bracket. With a conference game at Maryland scheduled for This Saturday and a final regular season contest at "The Game" against the top-ranked Ohio State, Michigan possesses ample chances to secure a playoff spot. 

As the Big Ten Conference boasts six teams in the CFP rankings, the Wolverines are contending for a top spot alongside undefeated leaders Indiana and Ohio State.

Under the guidance of head coach Sherrone Moore and true freshman QB Bryce Underwood, their season record shows just two defeats. Their first loss occurred in Norman against the Oklahoma Sooners during Week 2, followed by a second loss in Southern California to the USC Trojans in Week 6. This performance is commendable, especially since both opposing teams remain contenders for The Playoff. 

Underwood, a 6'4" Michigan native, possesses a powerful arm and considerable potential, yet he's faced challenges this season in establishing and sustaining a consistent performance. Perhaps attributable to freshman nerves, it remains an ongoing development.

The team has leaned heavily on the running game with sophomore running back Jordan Marshall leading the attack. Junior running back Justice Haynes, a highly regarded talent, will miss the rest of the season after undergoing foot surgery due to injury.

The Wolverines haven't performed at their peak away from home this year, yet they'll face a significant chance at the Big House on November 29th against "that team down south."

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Staff Writer