College Football Rankings 2019: Projected Top 25, Week 4 – Clemson makes statement

Michigan gets a well-needed rest in Week 3 after surviving an overtime scare against Army the week before. Jim Harbaugh’s crew has given up 21 points apiece to both Middle Tennessee and Army, exposing a defense that is nowhere near the caliber of last year’s unit. This is a critical issue to solve before the Wolverines get into the heart of their Big Ten schedule.

Similarly, the offense needs to get over some of its early hiccups from the first fortnight of the season. Shea Patterson has yet to throw an interception, but he is also averaging only 205 yards per game through the air. He has already taken six sacks, putting the onus on the offensive line to offer better protection. And the run game is perfectly average, ranking 62nd nationally in production.

After the rest period this weekend, the Wolverines head to Madison for a huge road showdown to start Big Ten play against Wisconsin. The Badgers feature the top defense to date in the country and will serve up a stiff test for Patterson and crew.