The “Time to Chop” Game Thread: Rutgers at Michigan State

How To Watch, Stream & Listen

Rutgers at Michigan State

Where: Spartan Stadium, East Lansing, Michigan

Kick-off: Saturday, October 24 at 12:00 PM ET

Weather: 42 degrees, partly cloudy with a 1% chance of rain, 6 mph winds

TV: BTN with Lisa Byington (play-by-play), Matt Millen (color), and Elise Menaker (sideline)

Stream: FOX Sports App

Radio: RWJBarnabas Health Rutgers Sports Network (WCTC 14-50-AM, WOR 710-AM, WENJ 97.3-FM, XM 387) with Chris Carlin (play-by-play), Eric LeGrand, Ray Lucas, and Anthony Fucilli (sideline).

Current Spread: Michigan State -11

Series History: Michigan State leads 8-3; last season Michigan State shutout Rutgers 27-0.

SB Nation Michigan State site: The Only Colors

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The wait is finally over. Greg Schiano’s return to Rutgers officially begins on the field today against Michigan State. There are plenty of questions for both teams entering the 2020 season opener.

For Rutgers, we won’t know who will start at quarterback until the game begins or right before, but I expect it to be Nebraska transfer Noah Vedral. He is well versed in the spread offense that offensive coordinator Sean Gleeson has implemented. Artur Sitkowski could get the call or even come in during the game. However, if Vedral starts I’m sure Rutgers would prefer he assert himself as the rightful starter in the season opener.

Update:

I don’t expect Rutgers to jump out to a multiple score lead in the game, but they must come out with energy and avoid falling behind by multiple scores early. If they can establish some offensive rhythm and sustain drives, even if it doesn’t lead to a bunch of points, it will give the defense a chance to stay competitive the entire game.

The defensive mentality with Schiano back is all about swarming to the football and forcing takeaways. They need to hold an edge with the turnover battle to win the game.

Special Teams is an area that should be a strength for Rutgers and could be even better as a unit this season. Aron Cruickshank could change the game with one kick return. Even if he doesn’t break a big one today, if he can come close to his 29 yard return average from last season, he’ll positively impact starting field position for an offense that certainly needs it.

No matter what happens today, having Rutgers football back with Schiano leading them should give fans something to be thankful for during this strange year. No win will come easy with only conference games this season. However, enjoy the little things and appreciate the beginning of another rebuild under Schiano. It’s time to chop and join us in the comment section during the game!