2024 Michigan Football Schedule: A Season of Exciting Matchups

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The 2024 Michigan football schedule is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory. With a mix of challenging non-conference matchups and a tough Big Ten slate, the Wolverines will have their work cut out for them if they want to return to the College Football Playoff.

The season kicks off on September 7 with a home game against FCS opponent Eastern Michigan. This should be a relatively easy win for Michigan, but it will give the team a chance to get their feet wet before the start of conference play.

After that, the Wolverines will hit the road for a tough non-conference matchup against Notre Dame. This game is always a classic, and it will be a great test for Michigan’s defense against one of the most potent offenses in the country.

2024 Michigan Football Schedule

The 2024 Michigan football schedule is packed with exciting matchups. Here are seven key points to know:

Season opener: Eastern Michigan (home)
Non-conference highlight: Notre Dame (away)
Big Ten opener: Indiana (home)
Rivalry game: Michigan State (away)
Toughest road game: Ohio State (away)
Potential trap game: Rutgers (home)
Season finale: Illinois (home)

The Wolverines will need to be at their best in 2024 if they want to return to the College Football Playoff. The schedule is challenging, but it also provides plenty of opportunities for Michigan to make a statement.

Season opener: Eastern Michigan (home)

The 2024 Michigan football season kicks off on September 7 with a home game against FCS opponent Eastern Michigan. This is a relatively easy matchup for the Wolverines, but it will give the team a chance to get their feet wet before the start of conference play.

Tune-up game: Eastern Michigan is an FCS team, so Michigan should win this game easily. This will allow the Wolverines to work out any kinks in their system before they start playing tougher opponents.
Chance for young players to shine: With several key players from the 2023 team moving on to the NFL, the season opener against Eastern Michigan will be a good opportunity for some of the younger players on the roster to get some playing time and experience.
Home-field advantage: Michigan has one of the best home-field advantages in college football. The Big House is always rocking, and it can be a tough place for opposing teams to play. Eastern Michigan will certainly feel the pressure of playing in front of a hostile crowd.
Start of a new era: The 2024 season will be the first for new Michigan head coach Josh Gattis. Gattis is a young and energetic coach who is known for his innovative offensive schemes. The season opener against Eastern Michigan will be a chance for Gattis to make a statement and show the college football world what he can do.

While the Eastern Michigan game is not the most challenging matchup on Michigan’s schedule, it is still an important game for the Wolverines. It will give the team a chance to get off to a good start and build some momentum heading into the rest of the season.

Non-conference highlight: Notre Dame (away)

One of the highlights of Michigan’s 2024 non-conference schedule is a road game against Notre Dame on September 14. This is always a classic matchup, and it will be a great test for Michigan’s defense against one of the most potent offenses in the country.

Rivalry renewed: Michigan and Notre Dame have a long and storied rivalry, dating back to 1887. The two teams have met 43 times overall, with Michigan holding a slight 25-17-1 advantage. The last time the two teams played was in 2022, when Michigan won 45-14 in Ann Arbor.
Tough road test: Notre Dame Stadium is one of the most difficult places to play in college football. The crowd is always loud and passionate, and the Fighting Irish have a long history of success at home. Michigan will need to be at their best if they want to win this game.
Chance for a statement win: A win over Notre Dame would be a huge statement for Michigan. It would show that the Wolverines are one of the top teams in the country and that they are capable of beating anyone, even on the road. It would also give Michigan a boost in the College Football Playoff rankings.
National exposure: The Michigan-Notre Dame game is always one of the most-watched college football games of the year. This is a great opportunity for Michigan to showcase their team to a national audience and to recruit some of the best high school players in the country.

The Notre Dame game is a big challenge for Michigan, but it is also a great opportunity. If the Wolverines can win this game, it will send a message to the rest of the country that they are a team to be reckoned with.

Big Ten opener: Indiana (home)

Michigan opens its Big Ten schedule on September 21 with a home game against Indiana. This is a favorable matchup for the Wolverines, as they have won 25 of the last 26 meetings between the two teams.

Home-field advantage: Michigan Stadium is one of the largest and loudest stadiums in college football. The Wolverines have a huge home-field advantage, and they are always tough to beat in Ann Arbor.
Recent dominance: Michigan has dominated Indiana in recent years. The Wolverines have won the last five meetings by an average of 28.6 points. Indiana has not beaten Michigan since 1987.
Chance to start Big Ten play strong: A win over Indiana would be a good way for Michigan to start Big Ten play on a positive note. The Wolverines have a tough conference schedule this year, so they need to take care of business against the teams they are supposed to beat.
Opportunity for young players to shine: With several key players from the 2023 team moving on to the NFL, the Indiana game could be a chance for some of the younger players on Michigan’s roster to get some playing time and experience. This could be especially important if Michigan has any injuries to key players during the season.

The Indiana game is not the most challenging matchup on Michigan’s schedule, but it is still an important game. A win would give the Wolverines a good start to Big Ten play and boost their confidence heading into the rest of the season.

Rivalry game: Michigan State (away)

One of the most anticipated games on Michigan’s 2024 schedule is the rivalry game against Michigan State on October 5. This game is always a heated affair, and it is one that both teams circle on their calendars each year.

The Michigan-Michigan State rivalry is one of the oldest and most storied in college football. The two schools are located just 60 miles apart, and they have been playing each other since 1898. Michigan holds a slight edge in the all-time series, with a record of 71-38-5. However, Michigan State has won the last two meetings, including a 37-33 victory in Ann Arbor in 2022.

The Michigan-Michigan State game is always a close and competitive contest. The two teams are often evenly matched, and the game often comes down to the final play. The atmosphere at these games is electric, and the fans of both teams are passionate and vocal.

The 2024 Michigan-Michigan State game will be played at Spartan Stadium in East Lansing. This will be a tough road test for Michigan, as Michigan State is always a tough opponent at home. However, the Wolverines will be looking to avenge their loss to the Spartans in 2022 and to reclaim the Paul Bunyan Trophy, which is awarded to the winner of the Michigan-Michigan State game.

The Michigan-Michigan State rivalry is one of the best in college football. It is a game that is always full of excitement and drama. The 2024 game is sure to be another classic.

Toughest road game: Ohio State (away)

The toughest road game on Michigan’s 2024 schedule is undoubtedly the trip to Columbus to face Ohio State on November 2. The Buckeyes are Michigan’s biggest rival, and they are always a tough opponent, especially at home.

Ohio State has won the last nine meetings between the two teams, and they have a 12-3 record against Michigan in Columbus since the turn of the century. The Buckeyes have a lot of talent on their roster, and they are always well-coached. They are also very passionate about their rivalry with Michigan, and they always play their best game against the Wolverines.

Michigan will need to be at their best if they want to win in Columbus in 2024. They will need to play mistake-free football and they will need to find a way to slow down Ohio State’s high-powered offense. The Wolverines will also need to be able to generate some offense of their own, as they are unlikely to win if they are forced to play a low-scoring game.

The Michigan-Ohio State game is one of the biggest rivalries in college football. It is a game that is always full of excitement and drama. The 2024 game is sure to be another classic, and it could have a major impact on the College Football Playoff race.

Here are some additional factors that make the Ohio State game so tough for Michigan:

The Horseshoe: Ohio Stadium is one of the largest and most intimidating stadiums in college football. It can be very difficult for visiting teams to win in Columbus.
The crowd: Ohio State fans are some of the most passionate and knowledgeable fans in the country. They create a very hostile environment for opposing teams.
The rivalry: The Michigan-Ohio State rivalry is one of the most intense rivalries in college football. Both teams always play their best against each other, and the games are often decided by a single play.

The Michigan-Ohio State game is always a challenge for the Wolverines. However, it is also a game that they always look forward to. It is a chance for them to prove that they are the best team in the Big Ten and one of the best teams in the country.

Potential trap game: Rutgers (home)

One potential trap game on Michigan’s 2024 schedule is the home game against Rutgers on October 12. Rutgers is not a traditional powerhouse, but they have been improving in recent years. They went 5-8 in 2022, but they had some close losses to good teams, including a 27-21 loss to Michigan.

There are a few reasons why the Rutgers game could be a trap game for Michigan. First, it comes after a tough road game against Michigan State. The Wolverines could be looking ahead to their next game, which is a home game against Ohio State. Second, Rutgers is a well-coached team that always plays hard. They are also very familiar with Michigan, as they are in the same division in the Big Ten.

If Michigan is not careful, they could easily overlook Rutgers and suffer an upset loss. Here are some factors that could make the Rutgers game a trap game for Michigan:

Rutgers is improving: Rutgers has been getting better in recent years, and they have a lot of young talent on their roster. They are capable of beating anyone on their schedule, especially at home.
Michigan could be looking ahead to Ohio State: The Ohio State game is the biggest game on Michigan’s schedule, and it comes just one week after the Rutgers game. The Wolverines could be tempted to overlook Rutgers in preparation for Ohio State.
Rutgers is familiar with Michigan: Rutgers is in the same division as Michigan in the Big Ten, so they are very familiar with the Wolverines. They know Michigan’s strengths and weaknesses, and they will be prepared for them.

Michigan needs to avoid taking Rutgers lightly. If they do, they could be in for a surprise.

Here are some things that Michigan can do to avoid a trap game against Rutgers:

Focus on the task at hand: Michigan needs to focus on the Rutgers game and not look ahead to Ohio State. They need to prepare for Rutgers like they would any other opponent.
Don’t underestimate Rutgers: Michigan needs to respect Rutgers and not take them lightly. Rutgers is a good team that is capable of beating anyone on their schedule.
Play their best game: Michigan needs to play their best game against Rutgers. They need to execute their game plan and avoid making mistakes.

If Michigan can do these things, they should be able to avoid a trap game against Rutgers.

Season finale: Illinois (home)

The 2024 Michigan football season comes to an end on November 23 with a home game against Illinois. This is a favorable matchup for the Wolverines, as they have won 15 of the last 16 meetings between the two teams.

Illinois has been improving in recent years, but they are still not a major threat to Michigan. The Wolverines should be able to win this game if they play their best. However, there are a few things that Michigan needs to be aware of:

Illinois has a good running game: Illinois has one of the best running backs in the Big Ten in Chase Brown. Brown rushed for over 1,600 yards and 20 touchdowns in 2022. Michigan will need to be able to stop Brown if they want to win this game.
Illinois is playing at home: The Illinois game is the final game of the regular season, and it is also Senior Day. Illinois will be playing with a lot of emotion, and they will be looking to send their seniors out with a win.
Michigan could be looking ahead to the bowl game: The Illinois game comes just one week before the bowl game. Michigan could be tempted to overlook Illinois in preparation for the bowl game.

Michigan needs to avoid taking Illinois lightly. If they do, they could be in for a surprise. Here are some things that Michigan can do to avoid a letdown against Illinois:

Focus on the task at hand: Michigan needs to focus on the Illinois game and not look ahead to the bowl game. They need to prepare for Illinois like they would any other opponent.
Don’t underestimate Illinois: Michigan needs to respect Illinois and not take them lightly. Illinois is a good team that is capable of beating anyone on their schedule.
Play their best game: Michigan needs to play their best game against Illinois. They need to execute their game plan and avoid making mistakes.

If Michigan can do these things, they should be able to win the Illinois game and finish the regular season on a high note.

The Illinois game is also an opportunity for Michigan to get some of their younger players some playing time. The Wolverines will be losing a lot of key players to graduation after the 2024 season, so it is important for them to start developing their younger players.

The Illinois game is a good opportunity for Michigan to do that. The Wolverines should be able to win the game easily, so they can afford to give some of their younger players some playing time. This will help them get some valuable experience and prepare them for the future.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about the 2024 Michigan football schedule:

Question 1: When is the 2024 Michigan football season?

Answer: The 2024 Michigan football season begins on September 7, 2024, and ends on November 23, 2024.

Question 2: How many games will Michigan play in 2024?

Answer: Michigan will play 12 regular season games in 2024, plus a bowl game if they are eligible.

Question 3: Who are Michigan’s biggest rivals in 2024?

Answer: Michigan’s biggest rivals in 2024 are Ohio State, Michigan State, and Notre Dame.

Question 4: What are Michigan’s toughest road games in 2024?

Answer: Michigan’s toughest road games in 2024 are at Ohio State, Michigan State, and Notre Dame.

Question 5: What are Michigan’s most favorable home games in 2024?

Answer: Michigan’s most favorable home games in 2024 are against Eastern Michigan, Indiana, and Illinois.

Question 6: When is the Michigan-Ohio State game in 2024?

Answer: The Michigan-Ohio State game is on November 2, 2024, in Columbus, Ohio.

Question 7: When is the Michigan-Michigan State game in 2024?

Answer: The Michigan-Michigan State game is on October 5, 2024, in East Lansing, Michigan.

Question 8: When is the Michigan-Notre Dame game in 2024?

Answer: The Michigan-Notre Dame game is on September 14, 2024, in South Bend, Indiana.

Question 9: How can I watch Michigan football games in 2024?

Answer: Michigan football games will be televised on a variety of networks in 2024, including FOX, ESPN, and BTN. You can also watch Michigan football games online through the Big Ten Network app or the Fox Sports app.

Question 10: How can I get tickets to Michigan football games in 2024?

Answer: Tickets for Michigan football games can be purchased through the Michigan Athletic Department website or through a variety of ticket brokers.

Question 11: What is the capacity of Michigan Stadium?

Answer: Michigan Stadium has a capacity of 107,601, making it the largest stadium in the Big Ten and the third-largest stadium in the NCAA.

Question 12: What is the attendance record at Michigan Stadium?

Answer: The attendance record at Michigan Stadium is 115,109, set on September 7, 2013, for the game against Notre Dame.

These are just a few of the frequently asked questions about the 2024 Michigan football schedule. For more information, please visit the Michigan Athletic Department website.

In addition to the FAQ section above, here are some tips for Michigan football fans in 2024:

Tips

Here are some tips for Michigan football fans in 2024:

Tip 1: Buy your tickets early.

Michigan football tickets are always in high demand, so it is important to buy your tickets early, especially for the big games. You can purchase tickets through the Michigan Athletic Department website or through a variety of ticket brokers.

Tip 2: Arrive at the stadium early.

Michigan Stadium is a large stadium, and it can take some time to get to your seat. It is a good idea to arrive at the stadium early so that you have plenty of time to find your seat and get settled before the game starts.

Tip 3: Be prepared for the weather.

Michigan weather can be unpredictable, so it is important to be prepared for anything. Bring a raincoat or poncho in case of rain, and dress in layers so that you can adjust to the changing temperatures.

Tip 4: Have fun!

Michigan football games are a great way to spend a day with family and friends. Make sure to enjoy the game and all the festivities that go along with it.

Tip 5: Be respectful of other fans.

Michigan Stadium is a shared space, and it is important to be respectful of other fans. This means being mindful of your language and behavior, and not doing anything that would disrupt the enjoyment of others.

Tip 6: Follow the Michigan football team on social media.

The Michigan football team is very active on social media, and this is a great way to stay up-to-date on all the latest news and information. You can follow the team on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

Tip 7: Listen to Michigan football games on the radio.

If you can’t make it to the game, you can still listen to Michigan football games on the radio. The games are broadcast on a variety of radio stations throughout the state of Michigan, and you can also listen to the games online through the Michigan Athletic Department website.

Tip 8: Volunteer for a Michigan football game.

If you are a Michigan football fan, you can volunteer to help out at a game. There are a variety of volunteer opportunities available, such as working the gates, helping with concessions, and assisting with parking. This is a great way to give back to the community and to get involved with the Michigan football program.

These are just a few tips for Michigan football fans in 2024. By following these tips, you can make sure that you have a great time at the game and that you are able to enjoy all that Michigan football has to offer.

The 2024 Michigan football season is sure to be an exciting one. With a challenging schedule and a lot of talented players, the Wolverines have a chance to make a run at the College Football Playoff. Michigan fans should be looking forward to the 2024 season and all that it has to offer.

Conclusion

The season kicks off with a home game against FCS opponent Eastern Michigan. This should be a relatively easy win for Michigan, but it will give the team a chance to get their feet wet before the start of conference play.

Michigan will then open its Big Ten schedule with a home game against Indiana. This is a favorable matchup for the Wolverines, as they have won 25 of the last 26 meetings between the two teams.

The Wolverines will then face their biggest rival, Michigan State, on the road. This is always a heated affair, and it is one that both teams circle on their calendars each year.

Michigan will then have a tough road test at Ohio State. The Buckeyes are Michigan’s biggest rival, and they are always a tough opponent, especially at home.

The Wolverines will then return home for a potential trap game against Rutgers. Rutgers is not a traditional powerhouse, but they have been improving in recent years and they could be a threat to upset Michigan.

Michigan will then close out the regular season with a home game against Illinois. This is a favorable matchup for the Wolverines, as they have won 15 of the last 16 meetings between the two teams.

The 2024 Michigan football schedule is a challenging one, but it is also a very exciting one. The Wolverines have a chance to make a run at the College Football Playoff, and they will have the opportunity to prove themselves against some of the best teams in the country.

Michigan fans should be looking forward to the 2024 season. It is sure to be a memorable one.