The No. 11 USC Trojans are gearing up for their first Big Ten challenge of the season, as they make their way to Ann Arbor to face off against the No. 18 Michigan Wolverines at the legendary "Big House" on Saturday. USC, boasting a 2-0 record, has already secured a significant victory over the No. 16 LSU Tigers earlier in the season. On the flip side, defending champion Michigan has faced some struggles, with a tough loss to the No. 1 Texas Longhorns in Week 2 and quarterback Davis Warren's shaky performance in their Week 3 win over Arkansas State, where he threw three interceptions.

Following Warren's struggles, Michigan head coach Sherrone Moore has made a bold move by replacing him with dual-threat quarterback Alex Orji for the upcoming clash against USC. Orji's dynamic style of play presents a shift in Michigan's offensive strategy, with an emphasis on a more versatile and run-focused approach. The talented QB has shown promise in gaining significant yardage through both designed runs and improvisational plays, making him a potential game-changer for the Wolverines.

Michigan's renewed offensive game plan also highlights the emergence of running back Kalel Mullings as a pivotal player in their ground attack. While Donovan Edwards was slated to be the primary option, Mullings has stepped up as the team's leading rusher, shouldering the workload with 15 carries in two out of the three games played so far. With a balanced rushing duo in Orji and Mullings, Michigan aims to control the pace of the game, sustain long drives, and keep USC's potent offense on the sidelines.

Despite USC's strong start to the season, their defense, particularly against the run, remains a concern. The Trojans exhibited vulnerabilities in their rushing defense against LSU, allowing an average of 4.5 yards per carry. While their overall rushing yards allowed reflect improvement from the previous season, more detailed analysis by PFF suggests room for growth in their run-stopping capabilities. As they face Michigan's persistent ground game, USC will be put to the test, requiring a unified effort to contain the Wolverines' rushing attack and secure a victory in hostile territory.

In what promises to be a thrilling showdown, Michigan aims to turn the tide against a formidable USC team and showcase their revamped offense led by Alex Orji. With the Wolverines embracing a new offensive identity centered around versatility and ball control, the outcome of this Big Ten matchup remains highly anticipated. Can Michigan pull off an upset as they defend their home turf against the Trojans? The stage is set for an exciting clash in Ann Arbor, where both teams are eager to make their mark in this pivotal showdown.