No. 18 Michigan hosts No. 17 Iowa in Ann Arbor for its Big Ten opener, and SB Nation’s preview identifies three keys for the Wolverines: cut penalties, control field position and establish the run. Iowa is the final opponent in Michigan’s four-game home start.
Michigan is averaging eight penalties and 71.3 penalty yards per game, ranking 36th and 16th nationally, respectively, the article says. Against Oklahoma, the Wolverines committed 11 penalties for 90 yards.
Michigan’s punting unit pinned Oklahoma inside its 20 six times, including inside the 1-yard line. Against UTEP, Jordan Marshall carried 12 times for 59 yards, while Savion Hiter had 11 carries for 62 yards and two touchdowns. The preview argues both backs need to contribute more against Iowa.
