Michigan State football: 3 bold predictions vs. Rutgers in Week 11

CHAMPAIGN, IL - NOVEMBER 05: Michael Fletcher #5 of the Michigan State Spartans reacts during the game against the Illinois Fighting Illini at Memorial Stadium on November 5, 2022 in Champaign, Illinois. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images)
CHAMPAIGN, IL - NOVEMBER 05: Michael Fletcher #5 of the Michigan State Spartans reacts during the game against the Illinois Fighting Illini at Memorial Stadium on November 5, 2022 in Champaign, Illinois. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images) /
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CHAMPAIGN, IL – NOVEMBER 05: Isaac Darkangelo #38 of the Illinois Fighting Illini reaches for the tackle on Jalen Berger #8 of the Michigan State Spartans during the second half at Memorial Stadium on November 5, 2022 in Champaign, Illinois. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images)
CHAMPAIGN, IL – NOVEMBER 05: Isaac Darkangelo #38 of the Illinois Fighting Illini reaches for the tackle on Jalen Berger #8 of the Michigan State Spartans during the second half at Memorial Stadium on November 5, 2022 in Champaign, Illinois. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images) /

2. Jalen Berger rushes for 100 yards

Jalen Berger hasn’t rushed for over 100 yards since the Akron game in Week 2 when he recorded his second straight 100-yard performance.

Berger came close against Illinois a week ago, having his best game since non-conference play against the top defense in the conference, and arguably the country. The Illini had allowed way less than 100 yards per game on the ground, but he topped their average rushing yards allowed by himself. He’s going to carry that momentum over into this game.

The zone read runs really helped this line open up lanes and Berger was able to find them easier and improvise and I think that will continue against Rutgers.

The Scarlet Knights have a solid defense, but they’re nowhere near where Illinois is. I think we’re going to see Berger go off for over 100 yards for the first time in Big Ten play as a Spartan.