Michigan Football: 3 reasons Wolverines will beat Wisconsin in Week 4

1. Zach Charbonnet runs wild, if healthy

The middle of Wisconsin’s defense is very inexperienced this year. Only inside linebacker Chris Orr has played significant snaps prior to this year. The nose tackle position, linebacker next to Orr, and safeties behind him that will creep into the box to stop the run are all fresh faces in the defense. This is one of the key matchups of the game and one that favors the Wolverines.

Both teams should have at least a slight concern about quarterback play, and both are probably wanting to establish the running game early. We know that’s Wisconsin’s path to victory. If Michigan, who has a more talented quarterback, can also get the ground game going though it could be a long day for the Badgers defense.

Charbonnet is just a freshman but it looks like he’s earned the job in the backfield. Two weeks ago against Army, he had 33 carries, which he took for 100 yards, and found the end zone three times. It wasn’t the most efficient day, but he got the job done for his team.

The Badgers are going to need to lean on a lot of inexperience to win this game in more matchups than this one against Charbonnet. If the Michigan freshman is the real deal then his team will be in this game with a great shot to win it. Especially if the above points come true.

The perfect storm for Michigan Football is to have all three of these things happen. But I think as long as one does it could be enough for the Wolverines to keep the game within striking distance. You can’t be too disappointed with that in a road environment like Camp Randall Stadium.