Dec. 31--TV/radio: Noon Friday; ABC-7.
Line: Michigan by 4.
Records: Michigan 9-3; Florida 10-3.
Last meeting: Michigan won 41-35 in the Capital One Bowl on Jan. 1, 2008, in Orlando, Fla.
On the offensive: Neither team ranks in the top 70 nationally. Michigan is rushing for only 152.7 yards per game, while Florida is worse, averaging only 127.6. The Gators will be without starting OT Mason Halter, who is suspended for the game.
Getting defensive: Expect the defenses to shine. Michigan pitched three straight shutouts this season. The Gators have held eight opponents to 14 or fewer points.The Wolverines rank fourth nationally, giving up only 281.3 yards per game, while the Gators rank sixth at 295.4.
The number: 2. Consecutive losses for the Gators, who fell to Florida State and Alabama. Michigan is coming off a loss to Ohio State.
The talk: The rebuilding of these proud programs is ahead of schedule under first-year coaches Jim Harbaugh and Jim McElwain.
Shannon Ryan's pick: Michigan QB Jake Rudock has made significant strides. He could be the difference in this defensive battle. Michigan 24, Florida 17.
