After falling to No. 12 USC 42-35, a loss that continued the Scarlet Knights’ losing streak dating back to last year, Rutgers will look to pick up its first win of the season and head coach Greg Schiano’s 100th win with the program in their game against Howard on Friday. The opening odds saw Rutgers named a 42.5-point favorite over the Bison.
Both Howard and Rutgers are coming into this game fresh off of losses. Howard fell victim to Curt Cignetti’s Hoosiers 55-0. The Knights, despite not winning
against USC, looked much better than in games past. The offensive line play was much better, opening up holes and allowing Antwan Raymond to rush for 122 yards while only allowing one sack. KJ Duff continued to prove why he should be a first-round talent, catching 7 passes for 86 yards and a toe-tap touchdown.
The defense played marginally better than in games past, getting a few stops, forcing a high-powered USC offense to settle for a pair of field goals and getting a turnover on downs late in the game to give the Knights offense a fighting chance.
Even quarterback Dylan Lonergan looked marginally better than he did against UMass; however, his two interceptions this game were back-breaking and a major contributor to the Knights’ loss. In total, he threw for 252 yards, three touchdowns, and two interceptions while completing 18 of 36 passes.
Indiana’s defense terrorized Howard last week, as the Bison failed to get more than 60 yards of total offense. Starting Howard quarterback Ja’Shawn Scroggins completed 8 out of 15 passes for 43 yards and one interception. Running back Billy Roberson II led the way in rushing with 14 yards on 7 carries. Defensive back Kaleb Gallop had the most tackles on the team last game with 7.
This game seems like a good opportunity for the Knights to get a convincing win. Despite the 0-3 start, you just had your best performance of the season against a ranked team. Their opponent is an FCS school that just got ruffed up by a top-5 team, and they have to go on the road to play another power program. However, if there is anything UMass taught us, it is to expect the unexpected. Rutgers should look to impose their will with their bigger offensive line to take the lead while also playing it safe to give themselves their best chance to secure a win.
Rutgers vs Howard will kick off at 7 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 25. Live coverage for the game will be available on the BIg Ten Network.
