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Jan 19, 2025; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; Michigan Wolverines head football coach Sherrone Moore fires up the crowd in overtime of the basketball game against the Northwestern Wildcats at Crisler Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

‘I Think Michigan Swarms’: Will Michigan Prove Too Much for Oklahoma on Saturday? Neuheisel Explains Why

Originally posted on Gridiron Heroics
By Ajayi Olamilekan | Last updated Sep 4, 2025 2:05 PM ET

Rick Neuheisel, a former coach turned analyst, gave his take on a high-major non-conference clash with his positive prediction that Michigan would top Oklahoma at Norman this Saturday.

On CBS Sports’ “Inside College Football,” he made his argument, citing the Wolverines’ defense in the hands of coordinator Wink Martindale as the deciding factor. He said, “I believe Michigan swarms,” Neuheisel explained of the success of Martindale’s stunts on scrambling quarterbacks such as Oklahoma’s John Mateer.

Both institutions are attempting to build some early momentum through the 2025 season. Michigan enters the season after a suspect but winning opener against New Mexico, where the defense gave up over 20 first downs but stifled key stops to claim a 34-17 win.

Recall, the Wolverines won the national title in 2023 before dropping to 8-5 last year, filled its roster with fresh talent, that include freshman quarterback Bryce Underwood, the country’s top-ranked 2025 prospect.

Underwood was consistent in his initial game, hitting on 21 of 31 attempts for 251 yards and one touchdowns, though the offense quite certainly was not balanced. Justice Haynes contributed 159 rushing yards, and three rushing touchdown, which offers some balance.

“I think Michigan swarms.”@CoachNeuheisel thinks Michigan will take down Oklahoma in Norman on Saturday pic.twitter.com/qhbsmYJtnG

— CBS Sports College Football (@CBSSportsCFB) September 3, 2025

The Sooners, rebuilding from a 6-7 season in what marked their first season in the SEC last year, bolstered the line in signing offensive tackle Derek Simmons. Depth is still an issue, though, especially after the tam allowed 50 sacks in 2024 season.

The game will be shown live on ABC at 6:30 p.m. ET from Gaylord Family Oklahoma Memorial Stadium as the two vintage programs will be clashing only the second time ever.

Why Wolverines’ Defense Holds Upper Hand Over Sooners’ Offense

Neuheisel’s argument stemmed from Martindale’s background of shutting down running quarterbacks, which he did for the Baltimore Ravens and New York Giants while still in the NFL.

Mateer, made his debut last year for the Washington State last year, and he is currently in for a step up. Neuheisel highlighted that his experience thus far came against the weakened Pac-2, as opposed to the full strength conference that he is currently in, comparing it with Oklahoma’s tearing apart of the weaker Illinois State defense in Week one game.

If Underwood uses seams with his arm talent, as evident in a 48-yard connection in the season opener, the Wolverines could have a chance to dictate the pace, but should he fail to par, it would be a different story.

Michigan’s next list can’t be more difficult, with USC and Ohio State in front, the team would need great defensive strength. Oklahoma on the other hand, has Alabama and LSU in front, where halting dual-threats is what they can’t escape, if they will come up with victory.

Neuheisel’s prediction can prove accurate if Martindale’s blitz storm overloads, but Oklahoma’s home support and backfield slipperiness provide counterpunching opportunities. Regardless, the result will predict one thing; both teams’ fates in unpredictable college football world, where season-opening performance proves important till the end of the season.

This article first appeared on Gridiron Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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