The Rutgers Scarlet Knights will have their first road game of the season. They are 3-0 but will be heading to Michigan to face the 3-0 Wolverines. This is the first away game for Rutgers and will be against a tough opponent. While it will be difficult to win, there are ways that the Scarlet Knights can keep the game close. Here is a look at what to expect during the Rutgers game against Michigan.
What to Watch for with the Scarlet Knights
Last weekend, Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy threw three interceptions. He will definitely stay focused and smart this week, but the Scarlet Knights have a strong defense. They have had at least one interception in each game this season. If the team can get a turnover and take advantage of it on offense, this could keep the score much closer than people expect it to be.
Michigan QB JJ McCarthy (9) – Paul Sancya/AP Photo
The Rutgers offense needs to step up early. Once they fall behind, it will be hard to catch up to the Wolverines’ offense. If the Scarlet Knights can get on the board the majority of the time that they are on offense, they can keep this a close game. This is easier said than done, but their run game is strong. They can take advantage of that and control the time of possession. They just cannot rely on it and let Michigan force them to pass on third and longs.
The key to the offense is for Wimsatt to play smart. The Scarlet Knights will try to run down Michigan if they can, but realistically, they will be forced to throw the ball, too. Wimsatt needs to be smart with the ball, which is something he has done better with this season. He also needs to be careful when running the ball. It can really help the team, but it can also hurt him.
Rutgers QB Gavin Wimsatt (2) – Kyle Ross/USA TODAY Sports
Rutgers Players to Watch
Kyle Monangai
Running back Kyle Monangai had a great game last weekend. He rushed the ball 16 times for 143 yards and three touchdowns, according to ESPN. He will be the heart of the offense on Saturday. If the Scarlet Knights can get something going with him, they can put up a real fight. They will still need to rotate him occasionally to keep him healthy, but that will also keep him rested for big runs.
Gavin Wimsatt
As stated, Wimsatt needs to play smart this week. This will be his fourth game in a row for the Scarlet Knights, and he should have a solid system with the players around him now. Last week was a rough one for him, but he could try to bounce back against Michigan. Last weekend, Wimsatt had just seven completions for 46 yards, according to ESPN. That will not be enough this weekend. If Wimsatt can get the ball out quickly and keep up with the positive yards, this game shouldn’t be too bad for him.
Deion Jennings
Linebacker Deion Jennings could have a big game this weekend. If J.J. McCarthy throws dangerous passes, Jennings could be a player to run the ball over. This season, he has had 25 combined tackles and three pass deflections, according to ESPN. He may not have any turnovers, but this could be the weekend to do it. It’s going to be tough being an away game, but watch for Jennings to have a strong game.
Rutgers QB Gavin Wimsatt (2) – Andrew Mills/NJ Advance Media
Game Predictions
It won’t be easy for the Scarlet Knights. They shouldn’t be completely counted out, but realistically, this is not going to be a great game for them. Expect the Michigan Wolverines to take the win with the score being around 38-17. Everyone should still watch for the Rutgers Scarlet Knights to fight until the end and potentially keep the score closer than people expect. The game will kick off this Saturday at Noon Eastern.
