Michigan Wolverines at Rutgers Scarlet Knights Picks,Odds, Lines & Predictions
Both Michigan (1-3 SU, 1-3 ATS) and Rutgers (1-3 SU, 1-3 ATS) are coming to the Saturday matchup with only one win out of four games. And, while this kind of season was to be expected from the Scarlet Knights, The Wolverines are one of the biggest disappointments in college football so far. Jim Harbaugh’s team has been struck with injuries and had some Covid-19 issues, but too often they failed to be even competitive as shown last week when they were blown off the field by Wisconsin. For Rutgers, last week marked one of the rare times they were favored to win the game, but still haven’t managed to get past Indiana at home.
Michigan Wolverines at Rutgers Scarlet Knights Betting Line Movement
Michigan’s poor form dictated the odds on this one, and they opened as favorites by only -7.5 points although some early action backing them has rove the line to -10.5 where it stands at the moment. The total is set at 55 at most sportsbooks and remained mainly unchanged throughout the week.
Notes On The Michigan Wolverines
Last week the Wolverines opened their game against the Badgers with two interceptions on the first two passes by the QB Joe Milton and that about sums up the whole season for Michigan. Before the half, Wisconsin took a 28-0 lead and easily ran away with the game. Milton who looked very promising in Week 1, has now the same number (4) of touchdowns and interceptions and may be relieved from his starting spot to make way for Cade McNamara.
The offense, except the Minnesota game, has been awful, averaging a measly 18.7 points per game. In addition to Milton’s struggles, the rushing offense is also nowhere to be found ranking 107th in the nation with only 116.3 yards per game. And, it’s not like the defense is coming to save the day. The Wolverines have allowed 425.8 total and 247.3 passing yards per contest this season. Michigan definitely has more talent than their results show and perhaps a QB switch will help them get going. Otherwise, Jim Harbough, no matter how big a Michigan legend he is, might find himself on a hot seat.
Notes On The Rutgers Scarlet Knights
After a solid start to the season and the away win at Michigan State, things quickly went south for Rutgers. The offense, led by a Nebraska transfer Noah Vedral has struggled to get a consistent passing game going. Verdal has thrown 3 interceptions in both of the last two games, but when he’s more careful he is capable of decent performances. The lack of a rushing threat isn’t helping him either as it allows the opposing defenses to focus on preventing the game through the air. Rutgers post 133.5 rushing yards per game, good for only 93rd spot in the country.
The defense allows 181 rushing yards per game, but that shouldn’t be much of a concern on Saturday due to the mostly non-existent Michigan’s running game. On the other hand, to get anything out of this game, their passing defense, currently ranking 73rd in college football, will have to show at least some improvement.
NCAAF Betting Pick: Michigan -10.5
The Wolverines are due for some improvement and have dominated the last 5 matchups against Rutgers. The moral seems to be low, but they have shown the ability to flip the switch after a tough run before.
