Michigan's Keys to Victory against ohio State

In an ongoing commentary that will likely lead all the way up to game time, today I'd like to point out what I think Michigan has to do to win Saturday against the hairless nuts.

1. Don't fall behind by more than 10.

To someone that hasn't seen a lot of Michigan football this year this likely sounds like a no brainer. Michigan has shown that it can come from behind on multiple occasions this year. A half time deficit is not a big concern but two touchdowns or more may just be too much to overcome. Conversely, Michigan hasn't had a whole lot of opportunities to play with the lead, often coming from behind late. If they take the lead they need to force it down the buckeyes throat. Ala, Woody "the Clemson hater" Hayes, when you score your 48th point, go for two!

2. Stay healthy

Perhaps the most important x factor are the health of Hart and Henne. Michigan needs 100% from these guys for the entire game, no more half game 100 yard performances from Hart are needed. As Lloyd would say "60 minutes of football".

3. Make Boeckman wish he'd never left c-bus.

Last weeks Michigan game vs. Wisconsin started with all sorts of pressure on Wisconsin's Tyler Donovan. He took some big hits early and it seemed Shawn Crable was going to spend most of the afternoon in the Badgers backfield. Almost back to back personal foul calls seemed to put an end to Michigan's defensive intensity. After those calls Michigan's pass rush was over committing which led to Michigan allowing a what turned out to be (at least for a week) mobile quarterback showcase, like Michigan has been victim to over recent memory. Troy Smith is gone and Michigan needs to plant Boeckman on his rear, not hurries, SACKS!

4. Zoltan Mesko punts like its 1950

I really like Michigan's punter Zoltan Mesko. I'm even in a facebook group called "Zoltan Mesko for Heisman". While his play this year has been generally good, last week was not. He was booting short, returnable kicks. A pet peeve of mine is Michigan punts from the opponents 40-50 yard line. While opponents seem to be able to send Michigan to the shadow of the goal posts, time and time again short Michigan punts will go into the end zone netting 15 to 20 yards. Field position will be big in this game.

5. Win 1st downs.

Michigan was terrible at this last week. Michigan need running backs falling forward for 4+ yards on first down. Jake Long needs to play the game of his life and the have Hart running behind him all game.

6. Stop 3rd and longs

I think opponents favorite down against Michigan is 3rd and 9+. Michigan needs to take advantage of the opportunities it presents itself with by stopping the bucks on 1st and 2nd down. I want to hear the Michigan band playing temptation after every third play in an OSU drive.