Michigan must dominate the run, unleash Bryce Underwood's arm, and neutralize Texas's special teams to seize a vital Citrus Bowl victory.
As the Michigan Wolverines prepare to face the Texas Longhorns in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl on December 31, 2025, the game carries significant weight for the Maize and Blue. After a 9-3 season that included disappointing losses against top 25 teams, this matchup against a highly-talented Texas squad—favored by the oddsmakers—offers a crucial opportunity to build momentum for the future and cap the season with a meaningful victory.
To defeat the Longhorns and secure their 10th win of the season, Michigan must execute in three key areas, demonstrating development and a clear game plan against a formidable opponent.
1. Unleash the Ground Game and Control the Clock
Michigan's offense has been defined by its strong running attack, which ranks 16th nationally, averaging 213.2 rushing yards per game. The tandem of Jordan Marshall and Justice Haynes has proven potent, combining for over 1,700 yards and 20 touchdowns. Being that Haynes has been ruled out for the rest of the season; the workload will be shared between Marshall and Bryson Kuzdzal.
Texas boasts a sturdy defensive front, allowing just 98.1 rushing yards per game (10th best nationally). Michigan cannot afford to shy away from this challenge. They need to establish dominance at the line of scrimmage, utilizing the offensive line to create running lanes and control the pace of the game. A successful ground attack will limit the possessions for the explosive Texas offense, led by quarterback Arch Manning, and keep the Wolverines' own defense rested. This ball-control style is essential for a Michigan victory.
2. Bryce Underwood’s Leap Forward: Trust the Arm
The most significant factor for Michigan's long-term success, and a critical component in this bowl game, is the development of freshman quarterback Bryce Underwood. His debut season showed flashes of brilliance (2,229 yards, 9 TDs), but the Wolverines' passing game often lacked the necessary threat in crucial moments, particularly against elite defenses.
Texas's defense will key on stopping the run, forcing Underwood to win the game with his arm. He must demonstrate decisive decision-making and consistent accuracy in Orlando. This bowl game, following 15 crucial bowl practices, is an opportunity for Underwood to prove he has taken a significant step forward in his progression. He must utilize the entire receiving corps, including top targets Andrew Marsh and Donaven McCulley, to stretch the field vertically and keep the Longhorn secondary honest. If Underwood hesitates or struggles to execute the passing game, the offense will become one-dimensional and predictable. For Michigan to win, they need a performance from Underwood that hints at the elite future expected of him.
3. Neutralize Texas's Explosive Special Teams
In a matchup of two strong defenses (Michigan is 16th in scoring defense, Texas 23rd), a non-offensive score or a flip in field position could be the deciding factor. Texas possesses one of the nation's most dangerous return men in Ryan Niblett, who led the SEC and was second nationally in punt return average, including two touchdowns.
For Michigan to win, the special team’s unit, now with new Special Teams Coordinator Kerry Coombs, must be disciplined and flawless. This means:
- Containment on Returns: Pinning Niblett deep and preventing any long returns, which can instantly swing momentum and points.
- Coverage: Kicks and punts must be directional and covered with precision to eliminate the risk of a game-changing score.
- Field Goal Operations: Any opportunities for points must be converted, eliminating costly errors in the kicking game.
The Wolverines' defensive front, led by Big Ten-star Derrick Moore, will pressure Arch Manning, but neutralizing Texas’s ability to generate points or superior field position from their special teams is just as vital. By establishing the run, allowing Bryce Underwood to make plays through the air, and shutting down Ryan Niblett, Michigan can secure a statement victory over a talented SEC opponent, ending their season on a high note and setting the stage for a critical 2026 campaign.