Michigan Football: Who Benefited From Washington Loss?
The Washington Huskies' shocking loss to the Montana Grizzlies in Week 1 sent shockwaves through the college football landscape, and the ripple effects are being felt far and wide. One team that stands to benefit from the upset is, surprisingly, Michigan.
Why Michigan Benefits:
- Strengthened Resume: The Wolverines had a tough schedule already, but the Huskies' loss weakens their resume, making Michigan's potential victory over them even more impressive. A win against a strong Washington team could solidify Michigan's spot in the playoff conversation.
- Impact on Playoff Chances: With Washington's playoff hopes essentially extinguished, Michigan becomes a stronger contender for one of the coveted playoff spots. The Wolverines are now the likely favorites in the Big Ten, and a strong conference record could put them in the driver's seat for a playoff berth.
- Potential for a Big Ten Championship Rematch: If Michigan can navigate a tough Big Ten schedule, they might face a resurgent Ohio State team in the conference championship game. A win over a weakened Washington team could give them a psychological edge heading into that critical showdown.
Impact on the Big Ten:
Beyond Michigan, the Huskies' loss could benefit the entire Big Ten conference.
- More Strength of Schedule: With Washington's weakness exposed, the Big Ten's overall strength of schedule becomes stronger. This could help bolster the conference's playoff chances, especially if multiple Big Ten teams make strong runs.
- Increased Playoff Possibilities: The Huskies' loss opens up the possibility for more Big Ten teams to contend for playoff spots. If Michigan, Ohio State, and potentially Penn State or Wisconsin can all win their respective divisions, the conference could be in a prime position to send multiple teams to the playoff.
What's Next for Michigan:
The Wolverines have a tough road ahead. They'll face a competitive schedule, including games against Penn State, Notre Dame, and a potential rematch with Ohio State. However, the early season upset in the Pac-12 could provide the Wolverines with the boost they need to push for a national championship.
In conclusion, the Washington Huskies' loss to Montana is a huge benefit for Michigan and the entire Big Ten conference. The Wolverines now have a clearer path to the playoff and a stronger resume. The Big Ten's strength of schedule has also improved, potentially opening the door for multiple teams to compete for a national championship.
