The Wolverines are certainly back under Jim Harbaugh. They had a tougher game against Michigan State than might have been expected, but Michigan still pulled off the victory against their state rival on Saturday. Wilton Speight was never really in rhythm, completing 16 of his 25 passes but finishing with no touchdowns and one interception. No single player dominated in the running game, but the Wolverines finished with 192 yards and three rushing scores. And while they allowed running back L.J. Scott to gain 196 combined yards and a score, the Wolverines kept the rest of the MSU offense in check.
The biggest thing that could be standing between Michigan and a shot at the national championship is complacency. Maryland comes to the Big House to open November, and while the Terrapins have been better this year they aren’t likely to upset the Wolverines. A road game at Iowa or the home finale versus Indiana could be possible trap games. But the biggest test is undoubtedly the rivalry game against Ohio State in Columbus on Thanksgiving weekend. The game will almost certainly serve as a de facto Big Ten East championship.