Longhorns Travel to Ann Arbor To Take On Defending Champs

September 6, 2024

By Carter Rennyson

The Michigan Wolverines host the Texas Longhorns on Saturday in one of the biggest non-conference matchups of the season. Last year, in Week 2, the Longhorns marched into Tuscaloosa and took down Alabama en route to their national semifinal appearance in January. The Wolverines, who beat Washington for their first national championship since 1997, begin their title defense against a talented Texas team.

The Wolverines' offense struggled to find its rhythm early but showed improvement late in their season opener against Fresno State. Davis Warren got the starting nod over Alex Orji and played fine in the opener, throwing for 118 yards and a touchdown. Orji also tossed a three-yard touchdown to Donovan Edwards. Michigan’s defense, one of the top units in the country, held Fresno State to just 9 rushing yards. Preseason All-American Will Johnson also recorded an 86-yard pick-six late in the game.

The Longhorns cruised to a 52-0 victory over Colorado State in Austin. Quinn Ewers tossed three touchdown passes and found immediate chemistry with Alabama transfer Isaiah Bond. Despite losing two running backs to injury in the preseason, Jerrick Gibson ran for 67 yards on 10 carries with a touchdown, while Jaydon Blue added 57 yards on 11 carries. The running game will be crucial for the Longhorns, who need a balanced attack to challenge the Wolverines’ defense.

Michigan has had great success at the Big House, winning its last 23 home games. For the Wolverines to extend their streak, they will need to get the offense going. Texas boasts a strong defense, anchored by defensive back Jaylon Guilbeau and linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. Michigan’s offense, particularly running back Donovan Edwards, will need to have a strong performance to outplay the Longhorn defense.

Texas moved up one spot to No. 3 in the country, while Michigan fell one spot to No. 10. This is the first matchup between two top-10 teams this season, and it should be a close game. This game will be a significant test for both teams and will help determine if either will secure a top seed in the expanded College Football Playoff. The showdown between two of the nation’s top programs kicks off on Saturday at noon.

Check back Saturday morning for our college football picks for a great slate of games.