Michigan and Penn State are both desperate to get back on track, but which team has the advantage on each side of the ball? We break down the matchups that could decide Saturday's game.

Michigan's Offense vs. Penn State's Defense

There might not be a more frustrating unit in the Big Ten right now than Michigan's offense. The Wolverines have plenty of talent, but offensive coordinator Jason Beck has struggled to get much of anything going through the first five games.

Michigan enters Saturday ranked No. 98 nationally in rushing offense, averaging just 135 yards per game. The passing attack has been even worse, ranking No. 116 nationally, while the Wolverines are scoring only 23 points per contest.

Quarterback Bryce Underwood has struggled with accuracy, decision-making and turnovers, while the offensive line hasn't consistently created opportunities for running backs Jordan Marshall and Savion Hiter. However, Penn State might provide the perfect opportunity to get things moving in the right direction.

The Nittany Lions rank No. 105 nationally against the run, allowing 166 yards per game and eight rushing touchdowns this season. Opponents are averaging roughly 35 rushing attempts per contest, suggesting teams have been comfortable attacking Penn State on the ground.

That should be music to the ears of Marshall and Hiter, who have yet to establish the kind of production Michigan expected from its backfield.

The Wolverines need to establish the run early, create manageable situations for Underwood and avoid the turnovers that have plagued the offense.

Michigan's Defense vs. Penn State's Offense

While Michigan's offense has been a major disappointment, the defense has generally given the Wolverines opportunities to win games.

Defensive coordinator Jay Hill's group has been forced into difficult situations because of offensive turnovers and inconsistent production, but it has shown the ability to keep opponents from completely taking over games.

Michigan surrendered just 20 points in its most recent loss to Minnesota, which should have been enough to win. Unfortunately, the Wolverines couldn't capitalize on the opportunities their defense provided.

Against Penn State, Michigan needs another strong performance, particularly when it comes to stopping the run and forcing the Nittany Lions into obvious passing situations.

The key will be winning on early downs and creating pressure without sacrificing discipline in the secondary. Michigan has talented defensive backs, including Jyaire Hill, Zeke Berry and Smith Snowden, who are capable of making life difficult for opposing receivers.

Up front, the Wolverines need to generate pressure and prevent Penn State from establishing a consistent offensive rhythm.

Perhaps most importantly, Michigan's defense needs to create a few extra possessions for an offense that desperately needs help. Head coach Kyle Whittingham and Hill have both talked about how important it is to start forcing more turnovers, and they both think they're coming.

Neither team has played up to expectations this season, but Michigan's defense has shown enough to believe it can control stretches of Saturday's contest.

If the Wolverines can limit explosive plays, force a turnover or two and make Penn State earn every yard, they'll give themselves an excellent opportunity to snap their two-game losing streak.

Michigan 24, Penn State 17