This weekend, all eyes are on a high-stakes clash as the Sherrone Moore’s Michigan Wolverines face off against the powerhouse Washington Huskies in a match-up that could determine Michigan’s fate in the CFP. But the pressure doesn’t stop there. Uncertainty surrounds the availability of star RB Justice Haynes, whose game-changing presence has been a lifeline.
Justice Haynes Injury Puts Sherrone Moore, Michigan, Under Playoff Pressure
Michigan’s 2024 football season may not have ended with a return to the CFP or a second straight national title. But it was still a strong debut for Moore’s first year as head coach.
Expectations in Ann Arbor were sky-high heading into 2025. While Michigan’s defense lost several star players to the NFL, it remains among the top units in college football.
On offense, true freshman quarterback Bryce Underwood generated buzz. He hasn’t set the world on fire yet, but he is improving.
With the season heating up, the Wolverines are gearing up for a pivotal clash against coach Jedd Fisch’s 5–1 Washington in Ann Arbor this Saturday. The game could effectively serve as a playoff eliminator for both teams.
“This game is the elimination game for the University of Michigan. If they lose this football game, they’re out of the football playoffs,” said analyst David Pollack.
Washington arrives with something to prove. Despite a strong record, the Huskies and their fan base have voiced frustration over a perceived lack of respect in the national rankings. Michigan, meanwhile, has just fallen out of the AP Top 25 after a disappointing loss to USC.
HC Fisch, a former Harbaugh assistant, is widely regarded for his passing-game prowess. His Huskies team is well-balanced, led by dual-threat QB Demond Williams Jr., who has thrown for over 1,600 yards and rushed for nearly 400 more this season.
The Huskies also boast a dangerous ground game with RB Jonah Coleman, who rushed for 80 yards and a touchdown in last year’s 27–17 win over Michigan in Seattle. That victory came just one season after the Wolverines won the national title by defeating Washington (then coached by Kalen DeBoer) in Houston.
Justice Haynes Injury Casts Doubt over Michigan’s Chances
Michigan’s biggest concern heading into this must-win match-up is the health of star RB Haynes. He suffered an injury during the Wolverines’ 31–13 loss to USC, forcing him out of the game, and the offense noticeably struggled without him.
Offensive coordinator Chip Lindsey gave an update earlier this week.
#Michigan OC Chip Lindsey says they’re hopeful that RB Justice Haynes can play this weekend and he further adds:
“It’s probably a wait and see thing.”
— Brice Marich (@BriceMarich) October 15, 2025
“It’s probably a wait-and-see thing.”
Haynes’ availability could make or break Michigan’s playoff hopes. He has been the team’s offensive engine all season, ranking fifth nationally with 705 rushing yards and eight touchdowns on just 95 carries, a blistering average of 7.4 yards per attempt.
Before his injury, Haynes had rushed for over 100 yards in the first five games. He was well on his way to another big performance against USC, logging 51 yards on 10 carries before exiting.
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In Haynes’ absence, Michigan turned to Jordan Marshall to carry the load against the Trojans. While Marshall is a solid back, his 14 carries for 68 yards (4.9 yards per carry) lacked the explosiveness that Haynes brings to the field.
Marshall is capable but doesn’t command the same level of attention from opposing defenses. Without Haynes, Michigan’s offense may struggle to keep up with Washington’s high-powered attack.
