Michigan football: Predicting Every Game of Jim Harbaugh’s First Season

Northwestern Wildcats, Oct. 10

Michigan leads series, 56-15-2

Last Meeting (2014), Michigan 10, Northwestern 9

Nov 22, 2014; West Lafayette, IN, USA; Northwestern Wildcats head coach Pat Fitzgerald leads his team onto the field before the game against the Purdue Boilermakers at Ross Ade Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sandra Dukes-USA TODAY Sports

Last year’s contest wasn’t decided until the final seconds when Michigan thwarted a Northwestern two-point conversion attempt. The try was set up by Trevor Siemian’s three-yard touchdown pass, leaving Northwestern down, 10-9, with three seconds left. Michigan’s Frank Clark sacked Siemian to preserve the Wolverines’ victory.

Like Michigan, Northwestern is going though a quarterback battle. Zack Oliver, a 6-4, 240 lb. senior will likely get the nod.

Justin Jackson, who rushed for 1187 yards a season ago, will lead the offense until the new QB gains some experience.

Defensively, Northwestern returns eight starters so don’t look for a track meet.

Prediction: Michigan 24, Northwestern 13.

Next: Michigan State