Michigan Wolverines vs Washington Huskies Picks and Predictions October 18th 2025

Last Updated on

Washington Huskies vs Michigan Wolverines Betting Preview

The Washington Huskies travel to Ann Arbor for a pivotal Big Ten matchup against the Michigan Wolverines on Saturday, October 18, 2025. Kickoff is scheduled for 12:00 PM ET at Michigan Stadium, with coverage on FOX.

sas logo

Get Daily Expert Insights on 10+ Sports

One Plan, Total Coverage

Washington enters the contest at 5-1 (2-1 Big Ten) after a dominant win over Rutgers, while Michigan sits at 4-2 (2-1 Big Ten) following a disappointing loss to USC. Both teams remain in the thick of the conference race, and a victory here will be crucial for their postseason hopes.

Washington Riding Momentum Behind Williams

The Huskies’ offense continues to hum under quarterback Demond Williams Jr., who delivered a historic performance in last week’s 38-19 win against Rutgers. Williams accounted for 538 total yards — 402 passing and 136 rushing — setting a school record and joining elite company as one of only 16 FBS players ever to throw for 400+ and rush for 100+ in the same game.

Williams’ accuracy and dual-threat ability have been remarkable. He has thrown for 1,628 yards with 14 touchdowns and just one interception, completing over 74 percent of his passes. Washington’s offense ranks among the top 20 nationally in scoring (235 points) and top 30 in passing yardage, showcasing balance and efficiency.

Running back Jonah Coleman has been a steady complement on the ground, while the offensive line has allowed Williams the space to create plays both through the air and on the move. Defensively, the Huskies have been disruptive, tallying 12 sacks and six interceptions. Their ability to pressure the quarterback and win turnover battles has fueled their strong start.

Coach Jedd Fisch praised Williams’ maturity and poise, noting how his decision-making and composure have elevated the entire offense heading into this crucial road test.

CFB
2025-10-16 16:30
Open
TULSA
EAST CAROLINA
CFB
2025-10-17 19:30
Open
NORTH CAROLINA
CALIFORNIA
CFB
2025-10-18 09:00
Open
GEORGIA TECH
DUKE
CFB
2025-10-18 12:30
Open
TEXAS A&M
ARKANSAS

Michigan Seeking Redemption at Home

The Michigan Wolverines find themselves at a crossroads after a 31-13 defeat to USC. The Wolverines struggled to move the ball, averaging just 3.5 yards per carry and converting only 2-of-11 third downs. The defense, normally the team’s backbone, gave up 489 yards and missed 14 tackles.

Coach Sherrone Moore’s message to his players was simple: refocus and respond. Michigan has historically excelled after losses, going 4-0 against the spread in its last four games following a defeat. The Wolverines are also 28-2 straight-up at home in their last 30 appearances, a testament to their dominance in Ann Arbor.

Quarterback Bryce Underwood will need a bounce-back performance after throwing two interceptions at USC. The ground game remains Michigan’s strength, led by Justice Haynes, who has rushed for 705 yards and eight touchdowns despite dealing with minor injuries. If Haynes is at full strength, expect the Wolverines to rely heavily on their run game to control tempo and limit Washington’s explosive possessions.

Defensively, Michigan has been opportunistic, forcing 11 turnovers this season (eight interceptions and three fumbles). Maintaining that aggressiveness will be key against Williams’ precision passing attack.

Line Movement and Odds

Current Odds (via ScoresAndStats.com NCAAF Odds)

Michigan -6.0 (-111)
Washington +6.0 (-110)
Total: 50.5 (Over -110 / Under -111)

Both teams have impressive straight-up records as favorites. Washington is 26-1 in its last 27 games when favored, while Michigan is 29-1 in its last 30 as a home favorite.

Matchup Breakdown

Washington Huskies Outlook

Washington’s offensive rhythm under Williams will test Michigan’s secondary, which has struggled against mobile quarterbacks. If the Huskies can protect Williams and generate big plays downfield, they’ll keep the Wolverines’ defense guessing. The key will be converting drives into touchdowns rather than settling for field goals.

Michigan Wolverines Outlook

Michigan’s best chance to win lies in establishing dominance on the ground. Haynes’ ability to chew up clock and wear down Washington’s front seven could shift momentum. The Wolverines must also clean up their tackling issues and prevent Williams from escaping the pocket for chunk runs.

Key Edge

Washington’s quarterback play is the difference-maker. Williams’ mobility and accuracy give the Huskies an advantage against a Michigan defense still searching for consistency. However, Michigan’s home-field edge and ability to run the ball effectively could make this a nail-biter.

Betting Trends

Washington is 26-1 straight-up as a favorite in its last 27 games.
Washington is 23-6 straight-up following a win.
Michigan is 29-1 straight-up as a favorite in its last 30 games.
Michigan is 28-2 straight-up at home in its last 30 games.
Michigan is 4-0 ATS after a loss in its last four games.
The total has gone over in seven of Michigan’s last eight home games.

Prediction and Best Bets

Expect a physical, back-and-forth contest between two teams with playoff aspirations. Washington’s offense can exploit Michigan’s defensive gaps, while the Wolverines’ rushing attack should keep it close.

Projected Score: Michigan 28, Washington 24
Best Bet: Washington +6.0
Secondary Lean: Over 50.5

For more college football analysis and expert picks, visit ScoresAndStats.com College Football Picks.