Three things to watch and a prediction as Rutgers football plays Miami in the Pinstripe Bowl

The chance to play in a bowl game was already meaningful for Rutgers quarterback Gavin Wimsatt.

Getting to play that bowl game at Yankee Stadium?

That adds some extra significance.

“I love baseball,” said Wimsatt, who pitched, played third base and centerfield growing up through high school. “I would say baseball was probably my first love. Which is surprising.”

But on Thursday, Wimsatt’s focus will be solely on football as he tries to lead the Scarlet Knights to a win against Miami in the Pinstripe Bowl (2:15 p.m., ESPN) in The Bronx.

Rutgers has spent the last three weeks preparing – valuable extra practices, especially for the younger players – and now it’ll have the chance to earn its first winning season since 2012.

One big benefit for the Scarlet Knights?

Nov 25, 2023; Piscataway, New Jersey, USA; Rutgers Scarlet Knights quarterback Gavin Wimsatt (2) throws the ball as offensive lineman Gus Zilinskas (59) blocks Maryland Terrapins defensive lineman Dillan Fontus (46) during the first half at SHI Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports

They’ll have much of their defense, which ranked among the best in the country, intact. Multiple starters, including cornerback Robert Longerbeam, defensive ends Aaron Lewis and Wesley Bailey and safety Flip Dixon, are all returning for one more season and will play in the bowl game.

Just as important?

Running back Kyle Monangai is also back to add to his 1,000-yard rushing season.

Here are three things to watch in the Pinstripe Bowl:

1. Can Rutgers football’s defense overwhelm Miami quarterback Jacurri Brown?

The Hurricanes have had some changes at quarterback.

Former starting quarterback Tyler Van Dyke entered the transfer portal after throwing for 2,703 yards and 19 touchdowns during the regular season.

That left Miami with just two scholarship…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/three-things-watch-prediction-rutgers-090719768.html

Author : App.com | Asbury Park Press

Publish date : 2023-12-26 09:07:19

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