Michigan Hosts Central Michigan as Poggi Steps In
The Michigan Wolverines return to the Big House this Saturday for a noon matchup with the Central Michigan Chippewas, aiming to bounce back from last week’s loss and steady themselves before Big Ten play ramps up. Michigan has owned this in-state opponent, winning all four previous meetings and outscoring CMU 285–33 in total, including a 59–9 rout in 2013.
How to Watch
Date: 09/13/2025
Time: 12:00 pm EST
Stadium: Michigan Stadium, Ann Arbor, MI
Radio: 94.7 WCSX
Watch: Big Ten Network
Biff Poggi Takes Over as Interim Coach
With Sherrone Moore beginning a two-game suspension tied to the NCAA’s ongoing probe, associate head coach Biff Poggi will serve as interim head coach. Poggi has been part of Michigan’s staff for years and is well-respected in the locker room, but this will be his first game calling the shots.
His task is simple but important: keep Michigan focused and prevent a letdown after last week’s misstep against Oklahoma.
Haynes and Underwood Powering Michigan’s Start
Freshman running back Justice Haynes has quickly become the spark for the Wolverines’ offense. Haynes has posted back-to-back 100-yard rushing performances (159 and 125 yards), including runs of 56, 59, and 75 yards. His 284 rushing yards through his first two starts are the most by any Michigan running back to open a career since at least 2000, and he’s already found the end zone four times.
Quarterback Bryce Underwood, also in his first year as a starter, has shown flashes of his five-star potential. Through two games, he’s completed 30 of 55 passes for 393 yards and one touchdown. Michigan will look for him to build rhythm and chemistry with his receiving corps as conference play looms.
Defense Holding the Line
Linebacker Ernest Hausmann has been a tone-setter, leading the Wolverines with 19 tackles. He’ll anchor a defense that has been steady but hasn’t faced much offensive firepower yet. CMU has struggled to move the ball consistently this season, which gives Michigan a chance to reestablish its defensive identity.
Road Closures & Game Day Traffic
Getting to Michigan Stadium this Saturday will require some extra planning. Various lane closures will once again be in effect around the stadium on home game days to improve security and pedestrian safety. These closures will be active three hours before kickoff until the end of the game (except for southbound South Main Street, which closes one hour before kickoff):
- East Keech Street between South Main Street and Greene Street — access limited to parking permit holders only
- Westbound right-turn lane on East Stadium Boulevard onto South Main Street (just south of the stadium)
- South Main Street between Pauline Boulevard and East Stadium Boulevard
Additional Nearby City Closures
Several nearby construction projects could further impact travel:
- State Street between South University and East William Street
Closed for ongoing watermain and resurfacing work through November 14, 2025. Traffic is detoured via Hill Street, South Forest Avenue, and Washtenaw Avenue. - South University Avenue at State Street
Fully closed through September 26, 2025 for pavement work. Follow posted detours via Hill Street and Forest Street. - South State Street between East Hoover Avenue and Packard Street
Closed through September 26, 2025 for watermain work. Vehicles are detoured via Stimson, Industrial, and Stadium Boulevard. - Miller Avenue from Seventh Street through Chapin Street
Closed through September 30, 2025 for underground watermain and storm sewer work. Expect detours via Maple, Dexter, and West Huron Street.
What’s at Stake
This is a reset opportunity. With Big Ten play right around the corner, Michigan needs a clean performance, sharper execution from Underwood, and another strong outing from Haynes to get back on track.
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