The Rutgers Scarlet Knights are coming off of a tough loss against the Wisconsin Badgers. This week they will face the Michigan State Spartans. The offense needs a bounce-back game after some key mistakes. This will be a home game for Rutgers, giving them an edge. Here is a look at what to watch for as the Scarlet Knights take on the Spartans.
What to Watch For
The Rutgers Scarlet Knights faced a rough loss last weekend against Wisconsin. One of the main reasons for that is how they played in the first half. They could not get any points on the board, and despite being able to play better in the second half, it was too late. This week, it will be important to watch how the team plays in the first half. They need to get into the red zone and walk away with at least three points on their drives. This means that the playcalling will be crucial this weekend.
Rutgers QB Gavin Wimsatt (2) – John Fisher/Getty Images
Another thing to watch for this weekend is the time of possession. The Scarlet Knights defense was evidently tired last weekend as the game progressed. They put up big stops, but with the offense not staying on the field, the defense couldn’t keep up with Wisconsin’s offense. based on the way the second half went for the Scarlet Knights in week six, they can do it, but this will be a crucial aspect to watch this weekend.
Special teams had a mishap last weekend, missing one of their extra points. The Scarlet Knights have done well with their kicking unit, but they need to be careful with that. It was just another unfortunate event in week six. The method of punting by Flynn Appleby has been interesting, to say the least. Sometimes the punts are great, as he punted three within the 20 last weekend, according to ESPN. Sometimes the punts are way too short, giving opponents great field position. This needs to be fixed sooner than later.
Rutgers DB Max Melton (16) – AP Photo/Al Goldis
Rutgers Players to Watch For
Kyle Monangai
Running back Kyle Monangai has been a stud for this Scarlet Knights offense. Despite how great he has been, he had just eight carries against Wisconsin last weekend. This season, Monangai has had 96 carries for 487 yards and six touchdowns, according to Sports Reference. He also has had two receptions for 23 yards. While it is understandable to not want to risk any injuries, or to try to mix up the play calls so that Monangai running is not as predictable, the team still should utilize their top offensive weapon in the run game.
Wesley Bailey
Defensive lineman, Wesley Bailey continues to progress each week. This season, Bailey has had 13 combined tackles, four solo, and 3.5 tackles for loss, according to Sports Reference. He also has had three sacks, three pass deflections, and three fumble recoveries. Two of his sacks came last weekend against Wisconsin. Watch for him to help push this team this weekend with the rest of the defense.
Max Melton
Defensive back Max Melton has been an underrated player this season. Rutgers fans know what he has done for this team, but this week, watch for him to have a big game. This season, Melton has had 12 combined tackles, six solo, and three pass deflections, according to Sports Reference. He has also had one forced fumble, one fumble recovery, and one interception. Melton is a playmaker and will be needed this weekend against the Spartans.
Rutgers DL Wesley Bailey (23)- AP Photo/Noah K. Murray
Game Predictions
This could end up being a pretty close game. Both teams need the win this week, and it may come down to the final whistle. It may also depend on Rutgers’ quarterback Gavin Wimsatt and his health after having to exit the game for a bit last weekend. The game score prediction is 21-15, with the Scarlet Knights taking the win. Being a home game for Rutgers, as well as with their powerful defense, they should be able to get the job done. The game will take place this Saturday at Noon Eastern at SHI Stadium.
