Badger Bits: Michigan's D playing with self-proclaimed swagger

Warranted or not, Michigan's defense will enter Saturday's game against Wisconsin with a high confidence level. "I really feel like the swagger is getting there," stated Michigan senior nose tackle Adam Patterson. Cornerback James Rogers echoed that sentiment: "The defense lately . . . our swagger . . . I think this is perfect." Whether or not the Wolverines are playing with a swagger, Jeff Potrykus of the Journal-Sentinel says that the numbers indicate the Badgers offense will have a decided advantage when they enter the red zone. Cue the statistics:

The Badgers lead the nation in touchdown percentage in the red zone at 81.1% (43 of 53). The success rate is even higher in league play, with 25 touchdowns in 28 trips into the red zone (89.3%).

Michigan is sixth in the league in red-zone defense. Opponents have scored on 35 of 40 trips (87.5%). Opponents have scored 27 touchdowns in the 40 trips (67.5%). Only Purdue (28) and Minnesota (31) have allowed more red-zone touchdowns.

So what do you make of the Michigan's defenders comments? Poll time.

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Adam Rittenberg has his Big Ten predictions out for this week. Wisconsin wouldn't mind his predicted results, but he hasn't had a perfect week of selections in Big Ten conference play.

SBNation's Maize n Brew has 83 reasons why Michigan has no chance against the Badgers on Saturday.