Sugar Bowl 2012: Michigan Defense Will Be Difference-Maker Against Virginia Tech

The Michigan Wolverines' improved defense is the prime reason they will take care of business in the Sugar Bowl against the Virginia Tech Hokies. 

While some fans are outraged the Sugar Bowl picked these two teams, the Wolverines and Hokies will play an intense game that is worth watching. 

Michigan is often praised for its offense because Denard Robinson is so fun to watch, but this year the real story has been the turnaround of the defense. 

A year ago, the Wolverines allowed a total of 406 points, but this season they did a complete 180 and only gave up a total of 206 points. 

The credit goes to new head coach Brady Hoke and his hire of defensive coordinator Greg Mattison.

Together, they had this Michigan team believing, and with so much time to prepare, the defense will shut down Logan Thomas and the Hokies. 

Ranked at No. 18 in the country, Michigan's defense is by far the best one Virginia Tech will have faced all season. The only team that gave the Hokies trouble was Clemson, and the Tigers happen to rank at No. 59 in the nation. 

Plus, the Wolverines offense is just as good, if not better, than the Tigers. 

The Hokies are in for a world of hurt when they battle the Wolverines, simply because their offense will struggle to find success against this stout Michigan defense. 

In the last three games, the Wolverines defense didn't allow a running back to rush for over 50 yards, so expect David Wilson to have a rough game.

Yes, he's fifth in the nation in rushing yards, but Michigan will be ready for him. 

While Robinson and Fitzgerald Toussaint will be running all over the place, the primary focus for Michigan is making sure the defense is ready to dominate. 

That is exactly what will happen, leaving the Hokies devastated and empty handed in postseason football once again.