Huge game this weekend in the MAC with Bowling Green at Louisville.

We at GoffRugbyReport will be at that game. But there are some other big games. The Liberty Conference D1 level has their semis. Fairfield visits AIC, which has battled nicely through the schedule, and Dartmouth is at Brown in a rematch of this past weekend's 24-5 Brown win.

Queens at Notre Dame College could have a big influence on who is 3rd in the Rugby East and potentially the top Rugby East seed to the NCR D1 playoffs.

And we've also got the tradition of the Battle for the Mitten at Jackson Field, the home of the Lansing Lugnuts baseball team in Lansing.

That's Michigan vs Michigan State and it's just about the rivalry. Or is it?

"Players look forward to this matchup all year and the preparation brings extra energy," said Michigan. "Both teams are trying to close the gap with the top conference teams and a win this Friday helps build that program momentum."

"There is no change in the preparation for the game," added MSU Head Coach Jim Rogers. "We just tend to get a little more amped up for UM, and it will be our second Friday night game in three weeks, so we’re ready."

More than that, Rogers wants to see his team play to its ability.

"We’ve had a tough schedule, with early wins against Illinois and Wisconsin followed by some tough losses to Indiana, Notre Dame, and Ohio State where we just didn’t play to our potential. I think we’ll be back and ready to go on Friday." 

But even with it going to be cold and drizzly this Friday night everyone is embracing the event. 

"The Battle for the Mitten is such a great event," said Rogers. "I was at the last one, prior to being a coach for MSU, and I thought the crowd size was great. Just showing rugby to as many people as possible is great for our team and the sport, and the youth event at halftime is so much fun. My sons and their friends are really excited to get to play on the Lugnuts field. 

"We are always very excited for Battle for the Mitten," added Josh Kipp, MSU Club President. "All of the young guys are pumped to take part in this high profile game, and who doesn’t love playing in a rivalry. And we come ready to play no matter the weather. No excuses."

"It’s a great event that’s had its fair share of weather issues," added Trenary. "We’re excited for the return [to Jackson Field]. It’s a great showcase for what’s possible in our sport and provides a great experience for our players. The weather sure comes with the territory. Nothing like fall in Michigan and we wouldn’t have it any other way."