Michigan football down several key starters in must-win vs. Rutgers

Can Michigan football again overcome a plethora of injuries?

Michigan football badly needs a win. Head coach Jim Harbaugh badly needs a win. With a measly record of just 1-3, the Wolverines take on the Greg Schiano led Rutgers Scarlet Knight who also sit at 1-3.

However, as they travel to New Jersey to take on the Scarlet Knights, the Wolverines will be without several key starters as they remain banged up. Most notably out for the Wolverines are edge rusher Kwity Paye and offensive tackles Jalen Mayfield and Ryan Hayes. This comes after losing their other edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson for the season as well.

How will Michigan Football look to overcome these injuries?

Without a doubt, in just two games, Paye has established himself as one of the premier pass rushers in the country and is well on his way for a massive 2021 NFL Draft rise. Speaking of risers when the draft rolls around in April, the redshirt sophomore in Mayfield is also set to potentially hear his name called in the first round.

Needless to say, replacing Paye and Mayfield will be no easy task for the Wolverines, who will have to do so once again. Along their offensive front, the Wolverines will now start two freshmen in the form of Zak Zinter and Karsen Barnhart. With Paye out, Luiji Vilain will get the start opposite Taylor Upshaw at the bookends of the defensive line.

Can the Wolverines get in the win column in this must-win matchup against the Scarlet Knights? They face an uphill battle to do so.

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