Rutgers University is currently 3-1, after their first loss against the Iowa Hawkeyes last weekend. While they had a bright start, the remainder of their games is against Big Ten opponents. Between issues with the quarterback position and a tough schedule, is the Rutgers football season over?
Choppy Offense
The Scarlet Knights went 3-0 to start the season, but their offense has not been the best. In Rutgers’ first game against Boston College, the team played multiple quarterbacks. The two they began to focus on were Gavin Wimsatt and Evan Simon. Wimsatt won the fight but went down with an injury in their third game of the season.
Simon threw two interceptions in their game against Iowa. The turnovers were a large factor in why they lost. The interceptions were not just because of tight coverage, it was poor decision-making by Simon. Wimsatt did not play against Iowa due to injury. If Wimsatt gets healthy, it is assumed he will take over the starting position again. There have only been five passing touchdowns between three quarterbacks this season. Only five passing touchdowns will not work against Rutgers’ future opponents. Unless the Scarlet Knights can get something going in this position, they can consider their season over.
Decent Defense
Rutgers’ defense has been the element keeping them in the conversation in college football. The NCAA’s website ranks their total defense at nine overall. The defense has 246 total tackles and nine sacks. They also have five interceptions for the year. Set to face strong offenses in the coming weeks, turnovers are crucial for the team. If the defense can keep this up, they can at least compete this season. The key is for the defense to make stops early and get off the field.
When it comes to run defense, Rutgers is ranked as the top school by the NCAA. The Scarlet Knights are also ranked 35 for defense against the pass. This week, Rutgers faces the Ohio State Buckeyes, which has one of the top offenses in college football. Defending against Ohio quarterback, C.J. Stroud has 1,222 passing yards, one interception, and only two sacks this season.
This weekend will be the toughest challenge for Rutgers’ defense yet. If the Scarlet Knights can hold off Ohio State to only a few points, Rutgers will not have to consider their season over.
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