Citrus Bowl: Keys to a Michigan Football Victory over Florida

Michigan Football closes out the 2015 season on 2016's first day against the Florida Gators in the Citrus Bowl looking for its tenth victory.

Here's what the Wolverines must do to secure the win on New Year's Day:

Make Treon Harris a Pocket Passer

Florida's quarterback has struggled mightily in games against the best defenses the team has played and he is not much of a threat to air the ball out and explode in the passing game.

Where Harris could give Michigan problems is if Florida cuts him loose and lets him run, which he is certainly capable of doing. The Gators are not going to win by letting Harris throw 30-plus times, so if they allow him to make plays with his feet he may be able to make things interesting against Michigan's defense.

No Big Plays

Florida has more than a few deficiencies on offense, but they do feature some players that have the ability to make the big play. Freshman wide receiver Antonio Callaway has receptions of 34, 46, 48, 53, 63 and 66 yards on the season to go with four touchdowns. He is also an excellent returner and took an 85-yard punt to the house in the SEC Championship Game against Alabama.

Running back Kelvin Taylor had a few 40-plus yard runs under his belt this season, which is also worth mentioning.

Michigan's defense was susceptible to some big plays down the stretch in the regular season, so we will see if they are able to bounce back in the Citrus Bowl.

Spread the Ball Around

Jehu Chesson emerged as Michigan's go-to receiver late in the regular season, but will likely be shadowed by All-American cornerback Vernon Hargreaves on Friday afternoon, meaning Jake Rudock will have to use his other targets.

The good news is that he has done a really nice job with that all season long. Rudock has gotten everyone involved and started finding his receivers and tight ends for bigger plays as the season went on. Jake Butt and Amara Darboh will have to step up in this game.

The last time we saw Rudock, he left the Ohio State game with a shoulder injury. He claims to be healthy and good to go, so the impact of the month's rest should be apparent early on in the Citrus Bowl.

What do you think Michigan needs to do to win? Sound off in the comments below!