Rose Bowl Preview - Michigan (12) vs Texas (5)

As a long time Michigan fan, it is often hard for me to pick against the Wolverines, or even think about the fact that they might lose their bowl game. Michigan has not been a strong bowl team in the last 50 years, but in recent years has won five of seven bowl game appearances.

This year the Wolverines will take on Texas in the Rose Bowl. Texas comes into the match 10-1, and the Wolverines come in 9-2. Both teams are first in their conference, and both hungry for a win. For Texas this will be their first shot at the Rose Bowl. For Michigan this will be their second shot in a row.

Texas is a very good offensive team. Four of their games were by 40 or more points, with two of them over 50, and one over 60. They have a strong running game in Cedric Benson, who ran for 1764 yards, with 19 touchdowns – and incidentally had my vote for the Heisman trophy.

So how will Michigan combat this?

Michigan has two freshmen to lead their team. Running Back surprise Michael Hart, and Quarterback Chad Henne. Hart ran for 1372 yards, with only nine games starting, and scored nine touchdowns. Henne threw for 2516 yards, and 21 touchdowns.

How does Michigan win?

This is the magic question I’ve been mulling over for two weeks, and – after clearing my mind of all complexity – have determined it might be rather simple.

Stop Cedric Benson.

Obviously the most potent part of their offense, Benson is rushing an average of 5.8 yards per carry, and put 150 yards on the board all but three games. Two of those he hit 140.

Michigan must force this team to go to the air. This is a place Texas has not been strong, with QB Vince Young only throwing 132-222, and 11 touchdowns.

Stop Benson, stop the scoring. How much simpler can it be? Maybe not as simple as talking about it, but I think it’s reasonable to assume.

Is that all there is too it?

No way. The offensive line must continue to open holes for Michael Hart. With Avant out, Braylon Edwards and Steve Breaston are going to have to step up more, and Edwards will have to eliminate the usual drop balls that he shows us every week. An early catch could mean a lot to the offense, and avoid a repeat of last year’s 28-14 embarrassment.

I have no predictions for this game. I plan to go into this game knowing that Michigan can win, but also stand a good chance of losing.

Yes, I’m riding the fence.

Predictions? Comments? Smart remarks?

ESPN.com - NCF - Rose Bowl Preview - Michigan vs Texas