Penn State Vs Michigan. Who Has The Edge??

Contributor Written on October 23, 2009

ANN ARBOR, MI - SEPTEMBER 19: Quarterback Tate Forcier #5 of the Michigan Wolverines looks on in the game against the Eastern Michigan Eagles at Michigan Stadium on September 19, 2009 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Michigan won 45-17. (Photo by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images)

(Photo by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images)

Well its here... the end of the week, and that means another great weekend in college football. This weeks matchup features Michigan vs Penn State 3:30 pm on ABC. Let's look at who has the edge for tommorow's matchup.

Penn State Defense vs Michigan Offense

Well Michigan leads the Big Ten with 37.5 ppg. They're also eighth in the nation in rushing (235 yds per game), and Penn State's defense is sixth in the nation allowing only 75 yds per game.

Also Penn State is only allowing eight ppg and hasn't allowed a first half TD this season. If you ask me, that's pretty impressive, but I think that Michigan will be able to move the ball on them.

If they do struggle then they will have to throw the ball which they have done pretty well this season with Tate Forcier at the helm. I read an intersting stat today on Espn.com courtasy of Adam Rittenberg. Tate Forcier is completing over 62% of his passes when out of the pocket vs only 57% in the pocket.

If they can open up the run game early then expect us to see the Tate Forcier that we saw vs Notre Dame. If not then it could be a long day for the Michigan offense.

Michigan Defense vs Penn State Offense

On paper this matchup seems to favor Penn State.

NOT SO FAST. Although Michigan's Defense has been inconsitent this season, they have shown growth and have gotten better every game, especially in the run defense. Now I was watching Big Ten Behind the Schemes, and they were talking about how in the Iowa game that the defense took chances and commited to stopping Iowa's run game which opened up a circle or hole in the middle of the field in which the QB would take advantage of.

So if Michigan can not take so many chances and back off a bit and allow Penn State to run the ball, then the defense can be ready for the pass. Everyone has been saying that Penn State's offense hasnt been consitent this season and has played cupcakes in non-conference.

I haven't watched Penn State very much this season, but I do know that Daryll Clark is a very good QB. However, if Michigan can do to him what Iowa did which is FORCE TURNOVERS. Then Michigan has a excellent chance at walking away with a victory.

Michigan over Penn State 34-28

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written on October 23, 2009 Preview/Prediction