After weathering a demanding early schedule, including a non-conference loss to Oklahoma and a road defeat at USC, the Michigan Wolverines now face the final stretch of their 2025 campaign with a 5-2 record. With the toughest opponents seemingly behind them, the path to the Big Ten Championship and a College Football Playoff berth is clearer, but not without its challenges. Head Coach Sherrone Moore and his team must navigate a series of potential pitfalls before the ultimate test against Ohio State.
The biggest challenges remain
While Michigan is likely to be favored in most of its remaining games, several significant challenges loom:
The Rivalry Road Test at Michigan State (Oct. 25): The first and most immediate challenge is a trip to East Lansing to face rival Michigan State. Under second-year coach Jonathan Smith, the Spartans have shown improved fight and resiliency, but the finished product is yet to show up on the scoreboard. The unpredictable nature of the rivalry, combined with a hostile night-game atmosphere in Spartan Stadium, makes this a classic trap game scenario. Michigan State will be eager to end a four-year losing streak to the Wolverines, and get a statement win for their limping program.
The Classic 'Letdown' vs. Purdue (Nov. 1): Following the emotional and physically demanding game against Michigan State, the Wolverines will return home to host Purdue. This game represents a prime "letdown" spot, where a team can mentally relax after a big rivalry win. First-year Purdue coach Barry Odom has overseen a rebuild, but his team will be looking for a signature upset. Michigan must avoid complacency and maintain its focus to avoid a costly slip-up at home.
The Novelty and Nuance of Northwestern (Nov. 15): The Wolverines will play Northwestern at the historic confines of Wrigley Field in Chicago. While Michigan's rushing attack and defensive line should allow them to win in the trenches against a less-talented Wildcats squad, the unusual environment could present an unforeseen challenge. Additionally, Northwestern, motivated to secure a key victory, could play with a renewed sense of urgency.
The Championship Decider against Ohio State (Nov. 29): The most significant challenge and ultimate test of the regular season will come in the finale against Ohio State at Michigan Stadium. The rivalry has been revitalized with Michigan's recent success, and both teams have national championship aspirations. Ohio State, seeking revenge after four consecutive losses, enters with a perfect record and a powerful roster. This game will determine the winner of the Big Ten East, a spot in the Big Ten Championship Game, and the final playoff hopes for both teams.
The road ahead: To succeed, Michigan must rely on a strong rushing attack and a resilient defense. Getting star transfer Justice Haynes back will be everything for the Wolverines. The offensive playcalling under Chip Lindsey will need to be sharper than it has been at times this season to maximize quarterback Bryce Underwood's potential. Most importantly, the Wolverines must navigate the emotional highs and lows of the schedule and avoid the kind of mistakes that have plagued them in the past. The path is clear, but the challenges are significant. It will be up to Michigan to rise to the occasion and prove they belong among the nation's elite.