No. 3 Michigan is gearing up for a crucial Big Ten East matchup against Maryland as they aim to continue their undefeated season. The Wolverines, coming off a dominant win against Penn State, are determined to block out distractions and secure another victory on the road in College Park, Maryland.

Last weekend, Michigan displayed their strength by relentlessly running the ball for 32 consecutive plays, ultimately overpowering the Nittany Lions and solidifying their status as a force to be reckoned with this season. Despite the absence of head coach Jim Harbaugh, who is serving a three-game suspension, the Wolverines didn't miss a beat with offensive coordinator Sherrone Moore leading the team.

Michigan's offensive prowess will once again be put to the test against the Terrapins, who are fresh off a hard-fought 13-10 triumph over Nebraska. Maryland's quarterback, Taulia Tagovailoa, faces a challenge in third-and-long situations, as he ranks 51st in completion percentage among players with 200 or more attempts. In order to make headway against the tough Wolverines defense, Tagovailoa will need to deliver his best performance of the season, particularly in critical third-down scenarios.

One notable aspect of Michigan's recent victory over Penn State was the lack of involvement from quarterback J.J. McCarthy, potentially affecting his Heisman campaign. With only eight pass attempts, McCarthy's contribution was limited as the Wolverines focused on the ground game. However, if he can shine against Maryland's defense, which boasts 13 interceptions this season, McCarthy stands a chance of staying in contention for college football's most prestigious individual award.

Looking ahead, Michigan's game plan for the matchup against Maryland is expected to remain consistent. With the highly anticipated Ohio State game looming next week, the Wolverines' offensive strategy is likely to revolve around pounding the rock and clock management, minimizing the need to score multiple touchdowns. This approach may give the Terps an opportunity to cover the spread.

In conclusion, as Michigan sets its sights on extending their undefeated streak, they face a formidable Maryland team that seeks to capitalize on any weaknesses. With distractions surrounding the Wolverines and a resilient Terrapins squad on the opposite side, Saturday's game promises to be an exciting battle. The outcome will not only impact Michigan's playoff aspirations but could also play a role in determining the direction of J.J. McCarthy's Heisman campaign.

Prediction: Maryland +19