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Michigan has given up just 23 points in three Big Ten matchups and fewer than 10 points a game since opening the season with shaky performances against Alabama and Air Force.

Safety Jordan Kovacs says the defense is feeling more confident each week, but doesn't want to get too comfortable and complacent.

Brady Hoke will make sure his players stay humble. He said the defense wasn't near what it needs to be to win a Big Ten championship after holding Michigan State to 10 points in a two-point win Saturday. Two days later, Hoke wouldn't say how much the defense has improved.

No. 20 Michigan, leaders of the Big Ten's Legends Division, plays at Nebraska on Saturday night.