In late July, Cincinnati running back Mike Boone praised first-year head coach Luke Fickell for changing the culture of the program.
"Coach Fickell brings a lot of positive attitude, positive energy," he said.
That positive attitude and energy has transferred to Boone and his teammates.
The Bearcats beat Austin Peay — who entered the game with a 27-game losing streak, the longest in the FBS or FCS — in a closer-than-expected Week 1 game, 26-14. Their Week 2 opponent, Michigan, used a dominating second half to defeat Florida, 33-17.
Nothing on paper suggests Saturday's game — the first-ever between the two programs — should be close. Games aren't played on paper.
"I've got no doubt in my mind that we can go out and shock the world," Boone, who rushed for 100 yards and one touchdown on 19 carries vs. the Governors, told the Cincinnati Enquirer this week. "We're focused this week. Razor-sharp focus. We just want to come out and execute."
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The point spread is hovering between 33-35 points, meaning it wouldn't come close to topping Howard's win over UNLV last weekend (45 points) as the biggest upset in college football history. It would, however, be a stunning blow to the Wolverines' playoff hopes and give Fickell, a longtime Ohio State assistant, another win over his former rival.
The game kicks off in Ann Arbor, Mich., at 12:00 p.m. ET on ABC.
