Michigan Football: 5 Keys To Beating Rutgers On Saturday

The Michigan football program has been through a lot this season, but they can't dwell on what has already happened. The season is not lost yet, and they can make some noise in the Big Ten. There is still a ton of talent on this team, and they need to focus on just beating Rutgers.

Devin Funchess has easily been Michigan's best offensive player this season. His 24 receptions, 321 yards and three touchdowns are all tops on the team by a mile, and he has only played in four of the five games. There is no one in the Rutgers secondary capable of covering him one on one. Devin Gardner needs to get the ball to Funchess early and often.

Michigan has actually been able to run the football very well this season. They are averaging 185.4 rushing yards per game with a good 5.2 yards per carry average. Derrick Green and De'Veon Smith have led the way, scoring three touchdowns each and averaging 5.7 and 6.8 yards per carry respectively. They can't get away from the run even if they fall behind.

The Michigan defense hasn't been bad this season, but they need to force some turnovers. Through five games the defense has only forced two turnovers. They rank 127th in the country in turnover margin. They need to put their struggling offense in a better position to succeed and getting a couple of takeaways will certainly do that.

Devin Gardner is getting his starting job back with Shane Morris out. He needs to step up and be the Devin Gardner of old. Gardner needs to take care of the football and make big plays. He has the talent to do so, but he has been inconsistent throughout his career. Whether it's with his arm or his legs, he needs to take advantage of an average Rutgers defense. When Gardner plays well Michigan is a totally different football team.