Big Ten Football: Power Rankings – Week One

6. Michigan (7)

Last Week: 52-14 win over Appalachian State

Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

The fear of a 2007 nightmare repeating itself was a constant theme in Ann Arbor leading up to the season.

That ended almost immediately once the game started.

Michigan came out and completely dominated Appalachian State from the word “go”.

Quarterback Devin Gardner hooked up with wide receiver Devin Funchess for Michigan’s first three touchdowns of the year, en route to a 35-point halftime lead.

While the passing game was crisp (Gardner went 13-of-14), it was new offensive coordinator Doug Nussmier’s running game that will have Wolverine fans talking this week.

Michigan finished with 350 yards on the ground, after struggling mightily in that area last season.

While the dominating victory was a good start for the Maize and Blue, the Wolverines have a huge game on the horizon against longtime rival Notre Dame.

If Brady Hoke wants to prove he’s piloting one of the league’s top contenders, a victory over the Irish would go a long way.

This Week: At Notre Dame (Sept 6 – 6:30 P.M. on NBC)

My Prediction: Notre Dame 28-27