--Michigan has outscored its opponents 19-0 in the fourth quarter this year.

--Michigan's run defense leads the Big Ten, allowing 1.1 yards per carry.

SCOUTING THE OFFENSE
While Rich Rodriguez waits for either Steven Threet or Nick Sheridan to grab hold of the starting quarterback job, at least Sam McGuffie is making strides in the backfield. McGuffie began separating himself against Miami (Ohio), although now the carries will be split again with the reinstatement of Kevin Grady. The Wolverines are dead last in the Big Ten in rushing and 93rd in the country, averaging 107 yards per game. That won't work for Rodriguez, a coach who loves to run.

SCOUTING THE DEFENSE
Both Utah and Miami (Ohio) picked apart Michigan's secondary, meaning the Wolverines could be in big trouble with deeper, more talented teams ahead on the schedule. Michigan is allowing 255 yards per game through the air, a figure that will likely increase against Jimmy Clausen and Notre Dame. For Michigan to win, the secondary will have to limit Clausen's big plays. So far, the Wolverines haven't proven they can do that.

QUOTE TO NOTE
"It's Notre Dame. You understand that there are some traditional rivalries throughout the country. I like to say every Big Ten game is a rivalry, but we have three natural rivalries with Ohio State, Michigan State and Notre Dame. We're probably one of the most unique schools in the country that have three that are that intense." -- coach Rich Rodriguez.

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