Why the Michigan Wolverines are still in the hunt for the CFP

With the Michigan Wolverines coming in at No. 18 in the College Football Playoff rankings and fifth in the Big Ten standing, they still have a shot to make a run at the Playoffs. Believe it or not, the door isn't shut. 

After a close win at historic Wrigley field over Northwestern, the Wolverines are knocking on the door of the 12-team playoff bracket. With a conference matchup at Maryland this Saturday and a regular season finale in The Game with top-ranked Ohio State, Michigan has more than enough opportunity to make a home run swing at the playoffs. 

With the Big Ten Conference currently holding down six spots in the CFP rankings, the Wolverines fight for position amongst the current undefeated key holders in Indiana and Ohio State.

Led by head coach Sherrone Moore and true freshman QB Bryce Underwood, they have only two losses this season. One loss came in Norman to the Oklahoma Sooners in Week 2 and another in Southern California to the USC Trojans in Week 6. Not bad considering both teams are still in the Playoff hunt as well. 

Underwood, a 6’4" Michigan native, has a cannon for an arm and endless potential but has struggled this season to find and maintain a rhythm. Call it freshman jitters, but it's a work-in-progress.

The team has leaned heavily on the running game with sophomore running back Jordan Marshall leading the attack. Junior running back Justice Haynes, a highly regarded talent, will miss the rest of the season after undergoing foot surgery due to injury.

It’s clear the Wolverines haven’t played their best on the road this season, but they’ll have a major opportunity awaiting them in the Big House on Nov. 29 vs. “that team down south."

More college football news: 

• Deion Sanders buyout, contract details as Colorado Buffaloes coach
• Ole Miss reportedly gives Lane Kiffin an ultimatum as family visits Florida and LSU
• Virginia Tech reportedly funding roster near top of ACC for James Franklin
• Bill Belichick goes viral for awkward handshake after Wake Forest loss
• Texas state trooper reportedly relieved of duties after player exchange at Texas A&M