Michigan visits Rutgers on Saturday in a matchup shaped by two questions: whether the Wolverines can settle in with Tommy Carr at quarterback, and how Rutgers will cope without injured starter Dylan Lonergan. Michigan’s defense has the edge, while the Scarlet Knights’ ability to run the ball could be crucial.

By the Numbers
  • Michigan is 4-3 overall and 1-3 in Big Ten play; Rutgers is 2-5 and 1-3.
  • Kickoff is Saturday, Oct. 31, at 12:30 p.m. ET on Big Ten Network, with streaming on FOX One.
  • Michigan allows 15.7 points and 95.6 rushing yards per game; Rutgers allows 199.1 rushing yards per game.
  • Michigan’s John Henry Daley has four sacks. Rutgers has allowed 18 sacks, including 11 on backup AJ Surace in 71 attempts.
Yes, But

Michigan’s defense is the stronger unit, but its offense is still adjusting after Carr replaced Bryce Underwood in a 13-6 overtime loss to Indiana. Rutgers is also without Lonergan, yet its backs Antwan Raymond and Clay Thevenin combined for 266 rushing yards at Northwestern.

State of Play
  • Lonergan is ruled out; AJ Surace or Sean Ashenfelder is expected to start at quarterback for Rutgers.
  • Michigan is playing just its second road game of the season.
  • Rutgers receiver KJ Duff leads the team with 774 yards and nine touchdown catches, while Michigan’s JJ Buchanan has 539 receiving yards.
What’s Next

Rutgers will need to protect its new quarterback and establish the run early. Michigan will look to pressure the passer and give Carr enough support to turn Buchanan’s targets into big plays.

Bottom Line

Michigan’s defensive advantage is clear, but Rutgers’ ground game offers a path to keep the matchup competitive. The outcome may hinge on whether the Scarlet Knights can run effectively without exposing their replacement quarterback to pressure.