Notre Dame vs Michigan Spreads 2011 College Football Picks: The Big House will turn on the lights tonight for the first time when Michigan welcomes Notre Dame to Ann Arbor. This evening's clash between the two long time rivals is scheduled to kickoff at 8:00pm ET on ESPN. 2011 College Football Picks have the hosting Wolverines listed as a +3 against the spread underdog; the game total is set at 55.5 points.
Notre Dame's season got off to an unexpected start with the Irish falling 23-20 at home to South Florida. The Bulls jumped
out to a 16-0 lead on the strength of a 96 yard fumble return touchdown and then held on against the elements and a game second half rally from Brian Kelly's squad to pull off the upset.
The loss was a huge blow to a Notre Dame team many had pegged for a BCS bowl game. Kelly's troops still might reach that destination, but the road to post-season greatness was made more difficult by last weekend's setback.
A slip up at Michigan and the Irish can kiss those hopes goodbye, though. Another upset remains a distinct possibility as the Wolverines knocked off Notre Dame 28-24 last year in South Bend.
Michigan quarterback Denard Robinson, who completed 9-of-13 passes for 98 yards in last weekend's storm shortened win over Western Michigan, had a monster game against the Irish. The speedy signal caller threw for 244 yards and a touchdown and he rushed for a staggering 258 yards and two scores in the victory. Robinson's 502 total yards set a school record.
Notre Dame also comes into this game with a new starting quarterback as Kelly elected to go with sophomore Tommy Rees over incumbent Dayne Crist. Rees led the Irish's second half comeback against South Florida, completing 24-of-34 passes for 296 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions while filling in for the ineffective Crist.
Rees effort helped push Notre Dame over the 500 yard mark against South Florida, but his contribution to the Irish's five turnovers also spoiled the team's impressive second half charge.
Notre Dame may get the win tonight, but the Wolverines are the pick. The underdog has won six of the last seven meetings between these two rivals, which makes Michigan a no-brainer selection at +3.
Notre Dame vs Michigan Spreads 2011 College Football Picks: Provided by BetOnline.com
Notre Dame Fighting Irish -3 (-110), Over 55.5 Points (-110), -155 (Moneyline)
Michigan Wolverines +3 (-110), Under 55.5 Points (-110), +135 (Moneyline)
