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Big Ten Power Rankings: Michigan overtakes Ohio State for top spot

By Mark Rogers

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Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

Michigan is mighty again. I know the real competition is still yet to come with Michigan State and Ohio State looming, but consider how Michigan is dominating opponents. Five wins: 14 points, capped by three straight shutouts for the first time since 1980.

No one will try to sell Northwestern as the latest Oregon. The Wildcats, however, bring a top-flight back in Justin Jackson and the ability to grind out production. For the past everyone’s offense has simply stopped at the sight of Michigan. BYU and Maryland’s shutout losses were accompanied by just 105 yards of total offense. Northwestern managed just 168 with only 38 coming on the ground in 25 attempts (1.3 avg). The Wildcats entered the game with the Big Ten’s No. 1 rushing attack at 249 yards per game.

Michigan stands No. in the nation in scoring defense at 6.3 points per game. The Wolverines are No. 2 in total defense (181 ypg), No. 2 vs the pass and No. 3 against the run. Opponents may claim that this defense is the best regardless of what the numbers say.

Jake Rudock turned in another unspectacular error-free day with 17 completions in 23 attempts for 179 yards. Kenny Allen hit a career-long 47 yard field goal and Jehu Chesson got it all started with a 96 yard TD return of the opening kickoff for a nice outing from the special teams.

It’s all working at Michigan whose lone loss came in the opener at Utah who has a case to make as the nation’s best team. Now the Wolverines have a score or five to settle with Michigan State. It’s the first of many on a score settling tour for the Maize and Blue.

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