First, I can’t comment on Wisconsin. My D never applied there and I’m not familiar with their admissions at all.
Now, the part about getting your app in early, because UMich can’t get through them all and thus you’re guaranteed a deferral is a myth that’s been perpetuated for more than decade. Simply not true. The rest of it seems correct (e.g., Michigan may want to see 1st semester grades).
My D18 submitted the evening of 10/31/17 and was admitted EA.