Oregon Favored to Beat Michigan After Wolverines’ Coordinator Change

Michigan heads to Eugene after firing offensive coordinator Jason Beck. Kyle Whittingham promoted Jim Harding to interim coordinator, but the change is not expected to bring major adjustments at this point in the schedule. Quarterback Tommy Carr is projected to take the first snap, while Bryce Underwood could also get playing time.

The Wolverines need their offense to improve and establish the run, while relying on a defense described in the report as one of the nation’s best. Michigan’s offense struggled in its previous game, a loss to Michigan State in which its defense did not allow a touchdown but the opponent scored five field goals.

Oregon, meanwhile, is coming off a win over Ohio State. The predictions emphasize the contrast between the Ducks’ recent momentum and Michigan’s offensive problems, and several expect Oregon to pull away after a close start. One forecast says Oregon’s offense can exploit the Wolverines’ struggles, while another points to Michigan’s errors across offense and special teams.

Four score predictions put Oregon ahead by 13 to 25 points: 24-10, 28-10, 23-10 and 31-6. A fifth prediction also favors Oregon but does not give a score. The game offers Michigan a chance to earn the win it needs for bowl eligibility; the forecasts expect the Ducks to prevail.