Gophers-Michigan game preview

The Wolverines have bounced back from Rich Rodriguez's disastrous reign and made Brady Hoke only the fifth Michigan coach to win his first four games.

The Wolverines have allowed only 10 points in their past two games, but those results cover up some porous defense. Michigan has recovered nine fumbles and intercepted four passes, helping to offset the fact that it allows 351 yards per game. If the Gophers quarterback, whether it's MarQueis Gray or Max Shortell, can complete a few passes to keep Michigan honest, running backs Duane Bennett and Donnell Kirkwood should find open lanes. Advantage: Gophers

Wolverines quarterback Denard Robinson is an early front-runner for the Heisman Trophy, and it's certain these Gophers never have faced anyone like him. Robinson leads the Big Ten in rushing and often makes morale-crushing big plays. He's far less accomplished throwing the ball, completing fewer than half his passes. Still, Michigan has 12 touchdowns in 13 red-zone opportunities. Advantage: Michigan

Michigan has tried only two field goals, making one, and freshman punter Matt Wile has averaged only 41 yards. Gophers kicker Chris Hawthorne has hit four consecutive field goals, and Dan Orseske's punting average ranks third in the Big Ten. But the Gophers will be without kick returner Troy Stoudermire. Advantage: Gophers

The Wolverines have the swagger of an unbeaten team, the comfort of playing at home and the adoration of more than 100,000 fans. The Gophers might be fired up about their coach's return, but they could be swallowed up by the Big House atmosphere. Advantage: Michigan

The Gophers offense is better than it has showed, and a little success against a so-so Big Ten defense might help get Minnesota rolling. But Robinson has embarrassed far better defenses than the one he'll face Saturday. In a shootout:

Michigan 38

Gophers28