Here are three Michigan Wolverines that USC fans should be aware of, as they will likely play key roles in Michigan’s game plan this weekend.
The big storyline heading into this highly anticipated matchup between No. 11 USC and No. 18 Michigan revolves around the quarterback change for the Wolverines. Michigan is starting Alex Orji, a relatively unknown player who hasn’t had much experience as a passer. Orji, a dynamic athlete with an impressive 5.8-yard rushing average in his college career, is intriguing because of his physical tools, but there’s uncertainty about his ability to lead the offense through the air. In his three years at Michigan, Orji has attempted just seven passes, leaving much to be desired about what he can offer in the passing game.
USC head coach Lincoln Riley, however, remains wary of Orji’s potential. “You always have to account for the pass,” Riley said. “You don’t play quarterback at this level without being able to throw the ball. To think they’ll run it 70 times and only throw it once isn’t realistic. You have to be prepared for Orji to hurt you through the air.”
While much of the attention is on Orji, USC should also be focused on three other Michigan players who could be even more critical to the Wolverines’ success in this game.
Kalel Mullings (Running Back)
Coming into the season, most expected Donovan Edwards to lead Michigan’s backfield, especially after his strong performances in the last two College Football Playoffs. However, senior Kalel Mullings has emerged as the team’s top rusher through the first three games. Both Mullings and Edwards have 36 carries so far, but Mullings has been far more productive, rushing for 270 yards (7.5 yards per carry) compared to Edwards’ 150 yards (4.2 yards per carry).
Standing 6’2″ and weighing 233 pounds, Mullings is a tough runner to bring down. Originally recruited as a linebacker, he has the size and strength to wear down defenses, as he demonstrated with his career-high 153 yards on just 15 carries against Arkansas State. His performance has shown that he can be a problem for USC, especially against a Trojans defense that has done well against the run but faces a much different kind of challenge with a power back like Mullings.
Although Mullings’ production against top-tier competition has been mixed—he had only 25 yards on six carries against Texas—Michigan may lean heavily on him and Edwards, given the inexperience of their quarterback. If USC can slow Mullings down, it could force Michigan to rely more on Orji, which would work to the Trojans’ advantage.
Colston Loveland (Tight End)
Another key player for Michigan is tight end Colston Loveland, who has been their most reliable pass-catcher so far this season. With 19 receptions for 187 yards and one touchdown, Loveland has been a crucial part of Michigan’s passing game, especially given their quarterback uncertainty. He’s the only Wolverine with more than 56 receiving yards, making him a vital security blanket for Orji.
However, Loveland’s status for the game is uncertain after he left last week’s matchup with an upper-body injury. Michigan tight ends coach Steve Casula noted that they are taking Loveland’s recovery “one minute at a time” and haven’t ruled him out yet, but his availability will be a key factor heading into the game. If Loveland is unable to play or is limited, Michigan’s already shaky passing game could suffer significantly. On the other hand, if he’s available, USC’s defense will need to focus on neutralizing him to prevent any big plays.
Josaiah Stewart (Defensive Lineman)
On the defensive side, Michigan’s standout edge rusher Josaiah Stewart will be a player USC’s offensive line needs to account for. Stewart leads Michigan with two sacks and is one of six defenders on the team with at least 10 tackles. A former Coastal Carolina transfer, Stewart has accumulated 23.5 career sacks over his four-year career and is capable of causing havoc in the backfield.
While Michigan’s defense hasn’t been as dominant as it was last year, ranking 57th in points allowed (19.7 per game) compared to leading the nation last year (10.9 points per game), Stewart and the rest of Michigan’s defensive line remain a formidable group. Lincoln Riley acknowledged the challenge, noting that Michigan’s defensive line will be the second high-level group the Trojans have faced in their first three games.
For USC to succeed, they’ll need to neutralize Stewart and keep him from pressuring quarterback Miller Moss. If Stewart can consistently break through USC’s offensive line, it could disrupt the Trojans’ offensive rhythm and give Michigan’s defense the edge they need.
In summary, while much of the focus is on Michigan’s new quarterback, Kalel Mullings, Colston Loveland, and Josaiah Stewart are three Wolverines who could present significant challenges for USC on Saturday.
