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5 things we learned from Michigan football win over Rutgers

By Chris Peterson

Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh on the sidelines during the second half of Michigan's 31-7 win on Saturday, Sept. 23 2023, in Ann Arbor.
Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh on the sidelines during the second half of Michigan's 31-7 win on Saturday, Sept. 23 2023, in Ann Arbor. /
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Michigan defensive back Mike Sainristil runs into linebacker Junior Colson after intercepting a pass intended for Rutgers receiver JaQuae Jackson during the third quarter Saturday, Sept. 23, 2023, in Ann Arbor. Sainristil ran the ball back for a 71-yard touchdown.
Michigan defensive back Mike Sainristil runs into linebacker Junior Colson after intercepting a pass intended for Rutgers receiver JaQuae Jackson during the third quarter Saturday, Sept. 23, 2023, in Ann Arbor. Sainristil ran the ball back for a 71-yard touchdown. /

Defense is still dominant

Michigan’s defense wasn’t really tested much in non-conference play. Yet, Rutgers got on the board with a touchdown on its opening drive. That gave the Scarlet Knights seven points when the previous three opponents only scored six total first-half points.

After that, Michigan pitched a shutout. Gavin Wimsatt only completed 10-of-20 passes following the touchdown for 113 yards. That’s not going to get the job done against Michigan, especially when the Wolverines stymied the run game, limiting Rutgers to just 77 yards.

Kyle Monangai was the Big Ten’s leading rusher coming into the game, but the Wolverines stoned-walled him and allowed just 27 yards on 11 carries.

Michigan’s pass rush needs to be better, but again, part of that was Wimsatt getting the ball out by design. Rutgers was also 3-0 and Michigan was able to cover the spread against the toughest opponent it has faced this season.

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