Detroit Free Press writers back Michigan to beat UTEP
All four predictions favour Michigan in its final non-conference game, with projected margins ranging from 31 to 42 points.
Michigan enters its final non-conference game of 2026 with a 2–0 record and a No. 19 ranking in the US LBM Coaches Poll. The Wolverines are scheduled to host UTEP at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor on Saturday, with the game beginning at 3.30pm and airing on BTN.
Four Detroit Free Press sports writers have predicted a Michigan victory. Their projected scores are 41–3, 45–3, 38–3 and 45–7.
The predictions follow Michigan’s 17–10 win over Oklahoma in Week 2. The Wolverines’ season opener was a 13–12 victory over Western Michigan, secured by a last-play Hail Mary.
Quarterback Bryce Underwood remains Michigan’s starter, although his passing consistency has been questioned in the early weeks of the season. The UTEP game provides another opportunity for the offence to develop before conference play.
UTEP lost 51–0 to Oklahoma in Week 1, but that result does not establish the outcome of Saturday’s fixture. No final result for the Michigan–UTEP game was available in the source material.
