Two weeks ago, I would have said that Notre Dame would beat Michigan handily.

After one half Saturday afternoon of watching the Fighting Irish play and keeping track of Michigan on the computer, I started to wonder.

By the end of the game, I had no idea who is going to win Saturday afternoon in Notre Dame Stadium.

Why the change of heart?

It’s really twofold.

First, I thought Notre Dame had more talent and a better coaching staff.

I still believe the Fighting Irish have the better coach, but I am no so sure about better talent.

Second, I didn’t know how the Wolverine players were going to react to the allegations hanging over the program.

Some times teams take a dive on their coach, while others rally around him.

Based on what happened in Ann Arbor last weekend I would say they are rallying around Rich Rodgriguez.

If you break down the two teams by four categories — offense, defense, special teams and coaching — it is hard to distinguish one from the other.

That could make for a very exciting football game.

I also have to take into consideration the weather forecast, which is for rain.

Michigan on offense probably has the upper hand on Notre Dame right now because Denard Robinson is going to cause the Irish defense all kinds of problems, especially matching his speed.

Defensively, the Wolverines put the clamps on a pretty good Connecticut team, which I saw dismantle Notre Dame in 2009.

Notre Dame’s special teams were outstanding on Saturday. I would give that edge to the Irish.

Coaching is a no brainer because you know how I feel about Rodriguez.

Kelly in my book is by far the better coach and I will go as far as saying he is one of the top couple of coaches in the entire country.

That leaves us with the weather to break the tie.

With a wet and slippery field, that could negate Michigan’s advantage in speed, especially on offense with Robinson.

With that being said, I think the Irish will edge the Notre Dame in a classic confrontation.

Michigan may go on to have a good season, but its Big Ten schedule poses a lot of problems for them.

Notre Dame is going to have a solid season because of the changes that Kelly has made on both sides of the football.

This is the kind of football game you enjoy watching.

Two great rivals, who are among the nation’s best when it comes to all-time victories.

The tradition of these two schools make this a must-see contest.

I cannot wait to get up Saturday morning and begin my trek south to the stadium.

If you are fortunate enough to have a ticket, you may see one of the better games in this seriers.

If you don’t fire up the television set, get out the snacks and be prepared for a great afternoon of college football.

Scott Novak is sports editor of Leader Publications. He can be reached at scott.novak@leaderpub.com