Michigan football, the 3-2-1: Three thoughts heading into the opener, two reasons for optimism, and a prediction 

Michigan begins the Big Ten season with a game against an improved Rutgers team Saturday looking not just to improve to 4-0, but also to find more consistency on offense. The Wolverines have been dominant on defense, but it's the other side of the ball that has some fans concerned. Here are three thoughts heading into the Big Ten opener, two reasons for optimism, and one Michigan football prediction ...