Is this the week Kyle Whittingham suffers his first loss at Michigan?

Through the first two weeks of the 2023 college football season, the No. 18 Michigan Wolverines have remained undefeated, with their record showing they are the team to beat. However, on Saturday, September 26, they will face off against the 17th-ranked Iowa Hawkeyes, a matchup that could determine their fate in the standings. Michigan's Week 1 game against Western Michigan ended in a highly controversial manner, with a Hail Mary pass by Bryce Underwood being ruled legal after additional time was added to the clock.

While this resulted in a win for Michigan, the NCAA later stated that the officials had made an incorrect call, even though the result could not be changed. Underwood's only touchdown pass of the season came from that game, and he has struggled to become a top-tier passer thus far. Michigan has started every game in a similar fashion, often leading by a slim margin before ultimately pulling away.

Their defense has been a key factor in their victories, as they have allowed only 4.3 points per game and have not conceded a rushing touchdown in their first three games. Iowa, on the other hand, boasts the top-ranked defense in the nation, allowing only 4.3 points per game and not permitting a rushing touchdown in their first three contests.

With a strong defensive presence, the Hawkeyes are expected to pose a significant challenge to the Wolverines. Kyle Whittingham, Michigan's head coach, has a history of struggling against ranked opponents during his tenure at Utah, boasting a 25-40 record against AP Top 25 teams. Whittingham's teams have frequently been unprepared for crucial moments, and this season, Michigan has appeared slower than their unranked opponents despite their undefeated record.

The outcome of this matchup against Iowa will be crucial for Michigan, as they will be facing a formidable defense if they fall too far behind. The game will be broadcast nationally on CBS.