Michigan Football News: Locked and loaded Wolverines aim to avoid upset against Fresno State

Michigan football is gearing up for the 2024 season with a clear focus on their opening game against Fresno State. After witnessing a top-10 team fall in the season's first week, the Wolverines understand the importance of staying sharp and prepared.

Georgia Tech's recent upset over No. 10 Florida State serves as a reminder that anything can happen in college football. The Wolverines are aware that they will be the team to beat this year, and they must approach every game with intensity and focus.

“It’s college football,” said Michigan senior offensive lineman Gio El-Hadi. “Anything could happen. Just like March Madness, you see unranked teams beating No. 1 teams. Anybody could lose on their best day, on their worst day. If you have a target in your back, you gotta play as best possible. Every team we’re going against this year, we have a big target on our back, and we have to play to the best of our abilities.”

Michigan has built a strong track record of avoiding upsets in recent years, having only lost twice when favored since the start of the 2021 season. This success is attributed to a mature team culture that emphasizes the importance of not overlooking any opponent, including Fresno State.

Head coach Sherrone Moore has stressed the need to concentrate on the present, rather than looking ahead to future matchups. The Wolverines recognize that there are no easy games in college football, and they must be ready for any challenge that comes their way.

"You can’t be worried about two or three days from now, because then you’re going to lose today," Moore said. "So you’ve got to get the advantage today on what you can do to get better. We know they’re (Fresno State) a good football team. There’s no cakewalks anymore in college football. Whoever you play, you gotta be ready to go.”

With the College Football Playoff expanding to 12 teams, the competition is fiercer than ever. Each week, Michigan expects to face teams that are eager to take their best shot.

“You got to be ready to go,” said senior edge TJ Guy. “Doesn’t matter how early in the season you’re playing, that clock starts, ball’s flying, game’s starting, you got to be ready to go. I didn’t think about it (FSU loss) too much, but everybody’s trying to beat you, so you gotta be ready to win.”

Related: Michigan Football News: Wolverine's 2024 Football Schedule

The offensive line, which has been a standout unit in recent seasons, is adopting a new motto: "Invictus," meaning "unconquerable." This reflects their goal to maintain high standards as they welcome new players into the lineup.

“None of us knew what that meant at the time," El-Hadi laughed. "Then he told us a little bit about the word being unconquerable, unbeatable. And I feel like that’s what we are."

As the Wolverines prepare for their season opener against Fresno State, they are focused on executing their game plan and starting the season strong. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. on Saturday at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor.