Central Michigan Chippewas will travel to Ann Arbor for a Week 3 showdown against the Michigan Wolverines at Michigan Stadium. Both teams enter this game with identical 1-1 records, making it a pivotal moment early in their seasons. The game will be broadcast on BTN at 12:00 PM on September 13, 2025. The Chippewas, hailing from the Mid-American Conference, come off a tough loss against the Pittsburgh Panthers. Despite their defeat, Central Michigan showed resilience in their Week 1 win over San Jose State. Their road record currently stands at 1-1 as they face another away challenge. Michigan Wolverines, ranked #23 in the AP Poll, hold a 1-0 home record after defeating New Mexico Lobos. The Wolverines will aim to capitalize on their home advantage and recover from a recent loss to Oklahoma Sooners. With strong performances at Michigan Stadium, they remain a formidable opponent for any visiting team.
Michigan vs Central Michigan At a Glance
- Game Date: Saturday, September 13, 2025 at 12:00 PM
- Venue: Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor, MI
- TV Coverage: BTN
- Michigan Wolverines Record: 1-1 (Home: 1-0)
- Central Michigan Chippewas Record: 1-1 (Road: 1-1)
- Game Odds: Michigan favored by 27.5 points
Michigan Wolverines Ready to Roar: A Look Ahead to the Upcoming Game
Offensive Dynamics
The Michigan Wolverines’ offensive play has shown a steady performance in the 2025 season. Averaging 47 points and ranking 46th in points for, they aim to capitalize on their offensive depth. Their passing game has been productive with 393 yards, placing them 77th in the ranks, while their rushing attack is slightly better at 347 yards, 54th in rank.
First downs have been a key metric for the Wolverines, accumulating 32, which positions them 32nd nationally. This consistency in moving the chains reflects their ability to maintain possession and control the game tempo.
Defensive Strengths
On the defensive side, the Wolverines have been quite resilient, with only 41 points against them, ranking 31st. Their defensive front has been especially effective, recording five sacks and ranking 6th in this category. Interceptions have also been a strong suit, with the team grabbing four interceptions, placing them 5th overall.
Though they haven’t recovered any fumbles this season, the Wolverines’ defensive strategy remains formidable. Their focus on pass rush and interceptions continues to disrupt opposing offenses, which is critical for their overall defensive success.
Recent Performances
The Wolverines began their season with a solid victory over the New Mexico Lobos, winning 34-17 at home. Their offense was balanced, with 251 passing yards and 201 rushing yards, demonstrating their dual-threat capability.
However, their recent trip to face the Oklahoma Sooners ended in a 24-13 defeat. Despite the loss, the Wolverines showed resilience on the ground, outrushing the Sooners with 146 yards.
Injury Concerns
Injury concerns may impact the Wolverines’ lineup, with key players like Caleb Anderson and Mikey Keene listed as questionable. The offensive line depth might be tested as Giovanni El-Hadi is also uncertain for the upcoming game.
These injuries could affect the team’s strategy, particularly in maintaining a balanced offensive attack. The Wolverines will need to adapt their game plan to accommodate these potential absences.
Team Betting Trends
- SU All Games: 1-1 (50.0%)
- SU as Favorite: 1-0 (100.0%)
- SU in Away Games: 0-1 (0.0%)
- ATS All Games: 1-1 (50.0%)
- ATS as Favorite: 1-0 (100.0%)
- ATS in Away Games: 0-1 (0.0%)
- O/U All Games: 1-1 (50.0%)
- O/U as Favorite: 1-0 (100.0%)
- O/U in Away Games: 0-1 (0.0%)
Central Michigan Chippewas Gear Up for Their Next Challenge
Offensive Performance
Central Michigan’s offense has averaged 33 points per game, placing them 57th overall. Despite their scoring capabilities, their passing game ranks 107th with an average of 292 yards. On the ground, the Chippewas have shown strength with 298 rushing yards, earning them a 73rd rank.
Last season, their total offensive yards saw a decrease, with passing yards totaling 1,961 and rushing yards at 2,038. However, they have managed to maintain a consistent running game. The Chippewas’ ability to convert opportunities into first downs has been notable, ranking 31st with 33 first downs this season.
Defensive Analysis
Defensively, Central Michigan has allowed 59 points, positioning them 48th in points against. Their defensive front has been effective in pressuring the quarterback, securing two sacks and ranking 9th. The Chippewas have also been successful in generating turnovers, with three interceptions and a rank of 4th.
Fumble recoveries have been another area of strength, where they hold a 5th place rank with one recovery. Comparatively, last season saw the defense struggle, with a total of 356 points allowed. The improvement this season indicates a stronger defensive unit.
Recent Games Recap
In their recent outing against Pittsburgh, Central Michigan faced a tough opponent and fell 45-17. The game highlighted some areas for improvement, particularly in the passing game where they managed only 177 yards. The Chippewas’ defense struggled to contain Pittsburgh’s offense, conceding 340 passing yards.
However, their season opener against San Jose State was a different story, as they secured a narrow 16-14 victory. The running game was a key factor in this win, with the Chippewas rushing for 247 yards. Their defense was effective in forcing turnovers, recording two interceptions.
Key Players
Quarterback Joe Labas has been instrumental in guiding the offense, though his passing yards rank 170th. Labas has contributed one passing touchdown this season. Running back Trey Cornist has been a standout performer with 112 rushing yards and one touchdown.
Wide receiver Tommy McIntosh leads the receiving corps with four receptions and 78 receiving yards. On the defensive side, standout players have contributed to the team’s impressive interception and sack totals.
Betting Trends
- SU Last 3: 1-1 (50.0%)
- SU Last 5: 1-1 (50.0%)
- SU All Games: 1-1 (50.0%)
- ATS Last 3: 0-2 (0.0%)
- ATS All Games: 0-2 (0.0%)
- O/U Last 3: 1-1 (50.0%)
- O/U All Games: 1-1 (50.0%)
Michigan vs Central Michigan Prediction: Over 42.5
Michigan’s offense ranks 46th nationally in points scored, averaging 47 points over the first two games of the season. With a strong home performance already under their belt, they are likely to put up significant points against Central Michigan. The Wolverines have shown a balanced attack with 393 passing yards and 347 rushing yards, which should keep the Chippewas defense on their toes.
Central Michigan’s defense has allowed 59 points in their first two games, indicating potential vulnerabilities against a high-powered offense like Michigan’s. While their offense isn’t as potent as the Wolverines’, they can still contribute to the scoreboard with their 33 points per game average. These factors create a scenario where the total points could exceed the current line of 42.5.
Given the offensive capabilities and tendencies of both teams, taking the over at 42.5 seems a reasonable option. Michigan’s ability to score and Central Michigan’s defensive lapses suggest a game where points will be plentiful. Expect Michigan to lead the charge offensively, with Central Michigan adding enough to push the total over.
In projecting a final score, Michigan is likely to control the pace and exploit Central Michigan’s defensive weaknesses, leading to a final scoreline around Michigan 35 – Central Michigan 17. This outcome aligns well with an over 42.5 bet.
- Michigan vs Central Michigan Prediction: Over 42.5
- Michigan vs Central Michigan Score: Michigan 35 – Central Michigan 17
