Rutgers Dominates Michigan in 30 point Route
Rutgers needed that one. Coming off a lackluster performance against Maryland, the Scarlet Knights put their three-game losing streak to bed with a dominating 82-52 victory over Michigan at a sold-out Jersey Mike’s Arena on Thursday night.
Clifford Omoruyi and Jeremiah Williams both went off with huge nights on the glass for the Scarlet Knights. Omoruyi had his ninth double-double of the season, and 29th of his illustrious career, as he posted 19 points and 15 boards in the victory. Williams had 19 points in his own right for Rutgers.
Aundre Hyatt also contributed 10 points, while Noah Fernandes added 11 points off the bench.
Rutgers left no doubt that this would be their night, jumping out to a 14-1 lead in the opening four minutes of the game. Michigan couldn’t handle Rutgers’ zone defensive formation, leading to several missed shots, while the Scarlet Knights were able to knock down shots.
“I just thought that we were in attack mode,” Head Coach Steve Pikiell said. “Obviously the ball was going in. We made some free throws at home here which hasn’t been one of our strong suits. We got rebounds, we were active. I think we got a ton of deflections in the first half which was a big part of it. I just thought they were locked in. They were locked into the right things to win a basketball game.”
Rutgers never trailed, leading 41-26 at the break. Ironically Rutgers outscored Michigan 41-26 again in the second half to win the game 82-52.
Historic night for Omoruyi
It was a huge night for the Rutgers senior. He moved past Rashod Kent for fourth all-time at RU in rebounds, 914, and 24th all-time in points scored for Rutgers.
Inside the Numbers:
Rutgers shot 52.4% for the game, its second-best mark of the season, and best in a Big Ten game this year. The 52 points Rutgers held Michigan to was the lowest point total for the Wolverines in a game in six years. It was also the first season sweep of Michigan by the Scarlet Knights in program history.
Up Next:
Rutgers travels to Nebraska on Sunday to face the Cornhuskers. At 15-13 and 7-10 in the Big Ten, every game is a must win for the Scarlet Knights who are jockeying for improved Big Ten Tournament positioning.
Rutgers Men's Basketball vs. Michigan 2.29.24
