5 reasons why Dan Lanning's Oregon might face defeat against Michigan in Week 10
Within the college football universe, Oregon looks pretty close to invincible. They survived a battle with Ohio State, they're solid and competent across the board, and they don't have a rough Big 10 grind ahead. But Michigan could have a season-transforming upset. Here are five reasons the Wolverines might pull off a shocker over Oregon.
5 reasons why Oregon could face defeat against Michigan
#1. Colston Loveland could make a difference
Michigan tight end Colston Loveland is a special player. Yes, he's the top receiver on the Michigan roster but he's also arguably the best tight end in the nation, a physical specimen who can win in physicality or speed. Loveland got off to a slow start, but he had 7 catches for 83 yards against Illinois and two TDs last week against Michigan State. Loveland could be the difference.
#2. Special teams could swing things
Michigan has three blocked kicks and punts on the year, tying for first in the Big Ten. While Oregon has outstanding athletes and has done its own share of special teams game-shaking, Michigan's kick-blocking abilities could well alter the outcome. If Michigan can withstand an initial push from Oregon, then a kick block might be the prescription to swing momentum late.
#3. The UM defense can put Oregon behind the chains
Oregon is a tough matchup offensively, their passing game hasn't been explosive, but it as been consistent. Their ground attack is likewise hard to shut down. But that's where Michigan's ability to create negative plays could be massive. UM is fourth in the Big Ten in tackles for loss and sacks, and that ability to put the Ducks behind the sticks could change the game.
#4. Michigan is great on 4th downs
If Michigan can stay competitive and get the game to fourth downs, the Wolverines could be in business. UM is second in the Big Ten in fourth down conversions, with 10 for 12 success on fourth downs. The Wolverines' ability to convert in short-yardage situations could help them control the clock and the game, if they can keep the game close enough for fourth downs to matter.
#5. Heavy is the head that wears the crown
If anybody should know about the pressures of being No. 1, it's Michigan. The defending champions had their own reckoning with impossible expectations after winning the title last season. But Oregon now has been No. 1 since their upset of Ohio State. They had last been No. 1 in 2012, a football lifetime ago.
Oregon has had a couple weeks now of hearing how great they are, and how their crash course with the Big Ten title and the CFP is inevitable. In a sport dominated by young players with short attention spans, that's a recipe that's ripe for a stumble. It's great to be No. 1, until it isn't.
What do you think of Oregon's upset potential this weekend? Share your thoughts below in our comments section!