2009 Michigan College Football Betting Odds: Over 6 Wins -200, Under 6 Wins +150
Michigan is coming off a horrendous season in which the Wolverines went 3-9 in Rich Rodriguez’s first season. Many expect Michigan to make it to a Bowl Game this year but I think Rich Rod is still a season or two away from post-season play. The Wolverines return 15 starters from last year, ten of which are on offense. The biggest issue was that Michigan didn’t have a quarterback that could effectively run the spread option offense that Rodriguez employs. A lot of people expect freshman, Tate Forcier to be the guy who can turn things around but depending on a freshman in the Big 10 is a little scary.
Meanwhile, the defense lacks depth and experience. Three starting defensive lineman are gone and youngsters such as true freshman William Campbell will be counted on to contribute right away. The linebacking corp is the strength of this unit with Obi Ezeb, Jonas Mouton, and converted safety Stevie Brown all return. The secondary also will depend on youth as well. All in all, I see Michigan with the inexperience they have at quarterback and on defense going at best 5-7 this year. They play at Michigan State, at Illinois, and at Wisconsin, not to mention two tough home games that they won’t be expected to win against Ohio State and Penn State. Throw in a non-conference game against an improved Notre Dame team and you’re looking at a losing season. I’ll take the under 6 games and the hefty juice at +150 for the Wolverines in ’09.
