3 keys to a victory for Michigan football vs. Rutgers

Sep 16, 2023; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; Bowling Green Falcons running back Jamal Johnson (20) is tackled by Michigan Wolverines defensive lineman Mason Graham (55) and defensive end Braiden McGregor (17) in the second half at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports /

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Photo by Mike Mulholland/Getty Images) /

Take care of the football

Schiano teams are generally pretty solid in the secondary and although Rutgers hasn’t played any top-flight quarterbacks, Rutgers has intercepted five passes in three games and allowed just three touchdown passes.

Bowling Green intercepted J.J. McCarthy three times on Saturday. There were a few reasons for that, but mostly, McCarthy needs to make better decisions.

McCarthy has only two multi-interception games in his career. Last season, he had just two interceptions in the regular season. So it’s not like he’s mistake-prone.

Jim Harbaugh said he wasn’t going to coach the “gunslinger” out of McCarthy and that’s a good thing. He’s an elite talent and the Wolverines can’t allow his confidence to waiver.

I’m confident that he’ll bounce back and as long as he doesn’t throw multiple interceptions this week, Michigan football should be in good shape.

Lose the turnover battle to Rutgers or have a couple of careless giveaways and this Scarlet Knights team is more than capable of pulling the upset.

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