Michigan and Michigan State Start Strong in Week 1
The Big Ten flexed its muscle in Week 1, finishing a combined 16–2, and both Michigan and Michigan State did their part to hold serve in the early power rankings. The Wolverines sit at No. 4, while the Spartans remain steady at No. 12 heading into a tougher slate in Week 2.
Michigan at No. 4 After Bryce Underwood’s Debut
The Wolverines opened the Sherrone Moore era with a 34–17 win over New Mexico. True freshman quarterback Bryce Underwood didn’t disappoint in his debut, showing poise while leading Michigan’s first two drives to touchdowns.
What looked like a blowout early got tighter than expected thanks to a couple of trick plays from the Lobos and Michigan miscues on special teams. Still, Underwood finished with a solid outing, and the Wolverines’ defense forced consecutive three-and-outs to start the game, exactly the start Moore wanted in Ann Arbor.
The focus now shifts to Week 2, when Michigan travels to Norman to face No. 18 Oklahoma, the only ranked matchup on the national schedule. If Underwood can stay composed on the road against a ranked opponent, Michigan could solidify itself as a true playoff contender.
Michigan State Holds at No. 12 After Beating Western Michigan
Over in East Lansing, Michigan State opened with a 23–6 win against Western Michigan. The Spartans’ defense carried the day, holding the Broncos to 217 yards and nearly pitching a shutout until a late pick-six spoiled it.
Quarterback Aidan Chiles was efficient, completing 17 of 23 passes for 155 yards and a touchdown. On the ground, sophomore running back Makhi Frazier provided balance with 103 yards on just 14 carries, giving MSU a reliable spark out of the backfield.
It was a clean, workmanlike performance for Jonathan Smith’s squad, who will face a bigger test Saturday night against Boston College. The Eagles’ physical defense will be a better barometer of where the Spartans stand.
Big Ten Setting the Tone
Beyond the in-state teams, the Big Ten looked dominant as a whole. Ohio State reclaimed the No. 1 spot after outlasting Texas, Penn State rolled Nevada, and Purdue impressed with a 31–0 shutout of Ball State.
For Michigan and Michigan State, Week 1 didn’t change much in the power rankings, and that’s a good thing. Both teams handled business, and with tougher opponents ahead, their rankings give them a strong starting point in a conference that already looks like the nation’s most competitive.
For fans in Michigan, the story is simple: both the Wolverines and Spartans took care of business, set their quarterbacks up for confidence-building debuts, and head into Week 2 with momentum.
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