Following a historic 2023 campaign that saw them clinch their first College Football Playoff title and 12th national championship, the Michigan Wolverines are aiming to maintain their position atop the college football world in 2024.
Despite significant departures of star players to the NFL and former head coach Jim Harbaugh taking much of the coaching staff to the Los Angeles Chargers, the Wolverines enter the 2024 season looking to sustain their recent success while gaining experience in key positions.
As Sherrone Moore embarks on his first full season as head coach of the Wolverines, Michigan faces a challenging schedule against several title-contending programs that could potentially dethrone the defending champions.
Notably, Moore holds a perfect 4-0 head coaching record after serving as interim head coach during Harbaugh’s two separate suspensions in the 2023 season.
According to BetMGM’s online sportsbook as of May 20, the Wolverines are currently given the eighth-best odds to win the 2024 College Football Playoff and National Championship at +2000.
Below are five teams that could present obstacles in the Wolverines’ quest to repeat as College Football Playoff champions this season:
Texas Longhorns
The Longhorns visit Ann Arbor early in the season in what promises to be one of the top non-conference matchups of the 2024 regular season. Led by returning quarterback Quinn Ewers, Texas boasts a talented offense that will test newly hired defensive coordinator Don Martindale as he seeks to maintain Michigan’s pro-style defensive scheme. The Longhorns and Wolverines will clash on Sept. 7 at noon (EST) at Michigan Stadium, broadcasted on Fox.
Washington Huskies
This matchup serves as a rematch of the 2023 College Football Playoff championship game, now hosted at Washington’s Husky Stadium. Under new head coach Jedd Fisch, following Kalen DeBoer’s departure to the Alabama Crimson Tide, the Huskies are rebuilding after losing key talent to the NFL. Transfer quarterback Will Rogers poses a challenge to Michigan’s secondary, and the game is scheduled for Oct. 5 at Husky Stadium in Seattle, WA.
Oregon Ducks
In their inaugural Big Ten season, the Ducks bring a high-profile skill set to Michigan Stadium on Nov. 2. Oregon’s offense, featuring a potent running attack and a hitch/seam passing scheme, will test the Wolverines’ defense. The Ducks’ transfer portal haul strengthens their defensive front, adding pressure to Michigan’s offensive line.
Ohio State Buckeyes
The annual showdown between the Buckeyes and Wolverines remains a highlight of the 2024 college football season. Having lost to Michigan in each of the past three seasons, Ohio State seeks redemption with one of the most talented teams in the nation. The Buckeyes’ skilled offense and strong defensive unit pose the toughest challenge for Michigan. The game, known as “The Game,” is scheduled for Nov. 30 at noon (EST) at Ohio Stadium, airing on Fox.
Georgia Bulldogs
While not on Michigan’s regular season schedule, the Bulldogs pose an external threat should the Wolverines stumble during the regular season. The potential for a postseason meeting exists, with the 2025 College Football Playoff expanding to 12 teams. The Bulldogs remain a formidable opponent with the capability to challenge Michigan’s national title defense.
As the 2024 season approaches, the Wolverines aim to defend their national title, aware of the tough competition ahead. Only time will tell if Michigan can maintain their position at the top or if one of their challengers will rise to the occasion in the upcoming college football season.
