Big Ten: Five biggest takeaways from Week 4

Sep 26, 2015; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines quarterback Jake Rudock (15) rushes in the second quarter against the Brigham Young Cougars at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

Michigan will compete for the Big Ten East title

If you think Michigan State’s trip to Ohio State on November 21 is the only Big Ten East game that matters, you are wrong. Michigan will give the Spartans much trouble when the two meet in Ann Arbor on October 17. I think the Wolverines can upset the Buckeyes on the last Saturday of the season too.

Michigan’s lone loss in non-conference play was against Utah, who is now ranked No. 10 in the country after beating Oregon in Week 4. No shame in that defeat for Jim Harbaugh’s team who bounced back with three convincing home wins that brought excitement back to The Big House.

Michigan has relied on their running game featuring De’Veon Smith. The running back left Saturday’s 31-0 win over BYU with an injury but it doesn’t sound too serious. Quarterback Jake Rudock accounted for three touchdowns on Saturday and has made improvements each week.

The defense for Michigan looks like a group of highly ranked high school players who finally have the right coaches to play up to their potential. Michigan allowed 105 yards to BYU in Week 4.

Michigan is now ranked heading into the conference slate and they are considered a public team. There might not be much value in picking them against the spread but don’t be surprised if they are playing in Indianapolis in early December.

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