Michigan Week: Can Rutgers Football Upset No. 2 Michigan?

Rutgers aims to upset Michigan in their first road game, relying on their strong defense and efficient quarterback play.

The Scarlet Knights, under the leadership of head coach Greg Schiano, have achieved an impressive 3-0 start for the third year in a row. They showcased their prowess by defeating Virginia Tech 35-16 in Week 3, concluding their non-conference play.

This season, the Scarlet Knights have shown significant improvement compared to previous years. However, their upcoming challenge in Week 4 against the Michigan Wolverines, with head coach Jim Harbaugh back on the sideline, will require them to execute a flawless game plan.

Week 4 marks Rutgers' first road game, and they aim to accomplish something unprecedented – defeating the Wolverines on their home turf. This feat has never been achieved by the Scarlet Knights before, making it a momentous opportunity for them.

To secure victory against the Michigan Wolverines, the Scarlet Knights must focus on the following five key factors:

1. Sturdy Defense: Rutgers boasts one of the strongest defenses in the Big Ten Conference, allowing a mere 69.7 rushing yards per game. Their defense has excelled in stopping the run, ranking 11th in the nation as of Week 3. However, they face a formidable challenge in Wolverines' running back Blake Corum, who showcased his skills with 101 yards and two touchdowns in Michigan's previous game against Bowling Green. The Scarlet Knights' defense must prepare to face the Wolverines' strong offensive line, which has been their defining strength this season.

2. Efficient Quarterback Play: Quarterback Gavin Wimsatt has been instrumental in Rutgers' success, displaying efficient play throughout the season. With 34 completions for 407 yards and three touchdowns, Wimsatt has yet to commit a turnover as of Week 3. While the Scarlet Knights have heavily relied on their running game for scoring, their passing game needs to step up to overcome the Wolverines' defense.

3. Time of Possession: Currently ranked 17th in the nation, the Scarlet Knights have excelled in controlling the time of possession, averaging 33 minutes and 4 seconds per game. Additionally, they hold the 20th spot in rushing offense, with Kyle Monangai leading the Big Ten in rushing yards with a total of 357. By maximizing their offensive possession time, the Scarlet Knights can limit the scoring opportunities for the Wolverines.

4. Turnover Margin: Rutgers' defense has shown prowess in creating turnovers, ranking 15th in the nation with a +4 turnover margin. They have particularly excelled in forcing interceptions, ranking 11th in the country with five interceptions. Michigan's quarterback JJ McCarthy struggled in Week 3, throwing three interceptions against Bowling Green. If the Scarlet Knights can maintain their turnover-winning streak for the fourth consecutive week, they stand a good chance of upsetting the second-ranked Wolverines.

5. Overcoming Historical Odds: The Scarlet Knights have faced a tough challenge against the Wolverines since joining the Big Ten Conference in 2014, with Michigan winning eight out of nine matchups. The Wolverines have dominated the series, with their worst defeat against Rutgers being a staggering 76-0 in 2016. To overcome this historical disadvantage, the Scarlet Knights must aim to score early and maintain the lead, thereby dampening the enthusiasm of the crowd. Michigan boasts a remarkable attendance record of over 100,000 fans in their home games at the Big House. The passionate fanbase can create a challenging environment for Rutgers, but big plays by the Scarlet Knights can silence the crowd and turn the tide in their favor.

In conclusion, the Scarlet Knights have showcased their potential this season with a strong start. However, their upcoming game against the Michigan Wolverines presents a significant challenge. By focusing on their defense, efficient quarterback play, time of possession, turnover margin, and overcoming historical odds, the Scarlet Knights can position themselves for a potential upset against the second-ranked Wolverines. This game will undoubtedly be a test of Rutgers' mettle and an opportunity to make a statement in the Big Ten Conference.