Michigan and Alabama have been preparing for this opener for nearly eight months.
The Cowboys Classic in massive Cowboys Stadium is set to kick off at 8 p.m. Detroit-time, with eighth-ranked Michigan set to face second-ranked Alabama, the defending national champions.
Michigan coach Brady Hoke has said all along he relishes playing these types of games and dismissed any suggestion the Wolverines would be better of playing a game before facing the Crimson Tide.
Hoke has said the Wolverines will learn plenty about themselves in tonight’s game.
What we do know is that Fitz Toussaint, the Wolverines’ leading returning tailback from last season, will not play tonight, suspended for the game because of legal issues.
What we don’t know is how Michigan’s offense will click without Toussaint.
Michigan senior quarterback Denard Robinson, entering his third season as starter, will be expected to shoulder much of responsibility. His targets at receiver will include senior Roy Roundtree, who is coming off minor knee surgery, Jeremy Gallon and Jerald Robinson.
The other big question that should be answered – how is Michigan’s defensive line after replacing three starters? The Wolverines will face a huge test against Alabama’s offensive line, considered among the best in the country.
Join the Conversation
The Detroit News aims to provide a forum that fosters smart, civil discussions on the news and events that we cover. The News will not condone personal attacks, off topic posts or brutish language on our site. If you find a comment that you believe violates these standards, please click the "X" in the upper right corner of the post to report it.