Michigan's standout cornerback, All-American Will Johnson, suffered a concerning injury late in the Wolverines' matchup against USC. Earlier in the game, Johnson had made a crucial play, intercepting USC quarterback Miller Moss and helping extend Michigan's lead to 20-10.

Since opening the season ranked No. 9 in the Associated Press' Top 25 poll, Michigan had dropped for three consecutive weeks following unimpressive victories over Fresno State and Arkansas State, and a 31-12 loss to Texas.