Washington vs. Michigan prediction: Odds, best bet for Monday night’s National Championship
In a contrast of two completely different offensive styles, the Michigan Wolverines and Washington Huskies face each other in the College Football Playoff Championship Game Monday night in Houston.
Backed by a formidable combination of elite defense and a robust running game, Michigan’s bid for the national title seems well within reach.
- Spread: Michigan -5.5
- Total: 56.5 points
- Moneyline: Washington +180, Washington -220
The Wolverines’ offensive strategy heavily favors the run, with 60.5% of their offensive kept on the ground. And with spectacular success this season, why not?
Blake Corum is the workhorse for Michigan, averaging 4.7 yards per carry. The backfield is further strengthened by Donovan Edwards and the dual-threat capabilities of quarterback J.J. McCarthy.
Contributing to the success on the ground is an outstanding offensive line that is ranked 12th by Pro Football Focus for its run-blocking.
The matchup against Washington’s 72nd-ranked run defense couldn’t be more delicious and points to a potential domination by Michigan, which can use its ground game to control the clock and help keep Heisman candidate Michael Penix Jr. and his receiving threats on the sidelines.
But just in case Washington steps up to the challenge and shuts down the run game, the Wolverines are versatile enough on offense to flip the script. Despite being held to a season-low 130 rushing yards against Alabama in the CFP semifinals last week, Michigan
On the season, McCarthy completed 73.4% of his passes for 2,851 yards, 22 touchdowns and just four interceptions.
While Michigan’s offense exhibits strength across various areas, it’s their defense that completely dominates. Ranking first nationally in scoring (10.2 points per game) and total defense (243.1 yards per game), second in passing defense (150.0 yards per game), and ninth in rushing defense (93.1 yards per game), the Wolverines are a defensive force.
Facing the Penix-led Huskies, who boast the best passing offense in the nation, Michigan’s front seven should be up to the task. The Wolverines are excellent at creating negative plays, and should be able to disrupt Washington’s offensive flow.
If defense and a complementary run game wins championships, look for Jim Harbaugh and the Michigan Wolverines to hoist the national title trophy after Monday night’s game.
Pick: Michigan -4.5 (PointsBet)
