Fresno St. Bulldogs vs
Michigan WolverinesPredictions & Preview

Michigan Wolverines Set to Face Fresno State Bulldogs in Highly Anticipated Week 1 Matchup

College football season has returned with a highly anticipated Week 1 matchup between the defending National Champions, the Michigan Wolverines, and Fresno State. Despite key departures, including QB JJ McCarthy and Coach Jim Harbaugh, the Wolverines are poised for success with new leaders like Offensive Coordinator Sherrone Moore. Standout players like Donovan Edwards and Colston Loveland will anchor the offense, while a strong defense led by Will Johnson and Mason Graham will be crucial. Fresno State, under new head coach Tim Skipper, looks to bounce back from a late-season slide with QB Mikey Keene and RB Malik Sherrod leading the charge. Michigan is the favored team with a current line of -21.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Bulldogs +870 | Wolverines -1600
• Spread: Bulldogs +21 (-110) | Wolverines -21 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 45.5 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Michigan will win straight-up is 94%.

Fresno St. vs Michigan Stats

Fresno St. Bulldogs

Longtime coach Jeff Tedford stepped down in July due to health concerns, with Tim Skipper stepping in as interim head coach for the 2024 season. The Bulldogs have the potential to contend for a conference title if they can navigate their non-conference schedule and improve their defense, which allowed 30 or more points in six games last season. Key returning players on defense include Devo Bridges, Gavriel Lightfoot, and high-profile transfer Korey Foreman. On offense, quarterback Mikey Keene and running back Malik Sherrod lead a talented group that includes key returning receivers and an improved offensive line. Fresno State is currently ranked 36 in power rankings, with a #46 offense and #47 defense. They are 0-0 (0-0 ATS) this season.

Michigan Wolverines Analysis

The Michigan Wolverines are set to begin their season with a five-man quarterback battle coming to a close, with Alex Orgi expected to earn the starting spot. The offense will be led by big-play running back Donovan Edwards, supported by a revamped offensive line and returning tight end Colston Loveland. Despite a commitment to a ground-and-pound approach, the offense may face challenges due to unproven quarterback and running back options. On defense, new coordinator Don "Wink" Martindale brings expertise in disguise-heavy schemes and plans to incorporate more blitzing tactics. The defensive line is anchored by Mason Graham and Kenneth Grant, while the secondary will be led by All-America cornerback Will Johnson. The team is currently ranked #2 nationally and is expected to have a strong defense while facing some challenges on offense. In their upcoming game against Fresno State, Michigan has a historical advantage.

Michigan Football Faces Uncertain Season as National Champions with New Leadership, Threatened by Fresno State's Stability

The University of Michigan football team faces significant changes as they begin the new season as defending National Champions. Former head coach Jim Harbaugh and star quarterback JJ McCarthy have departed, leaving relatively untested replacements in Sherrone Moore and Alex Orgi, respectively. While Moore is highly respected, he must fill the shoes of a successful leader, and Orgi lacks experience leading a team at the national championship level. These changes may lead to a slow start for Michigan this season. Conversely, Fresno State offers stability and continuity, with Mikey Keene returning as quarterback alongside key offensive weapons. Under new head coach Tim Skipper, the Bulldogs have a history of performing well against challenging non-conference opponents, making them a formidable opponent for Michigan. With Keene's proven success and familiarity with the offense, Fresno State is well-positioned to effectively move the ball and potentially secure a victory.

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