Rutgers football’s 2024 season will hinge on these 5 games

PISCATAWAY – Rutgers football is heading into a much-anticipated 2024 season. Expectations from the outside are high.

In some ways, very high.

Part of that stems from a slate that, on paper, benefits the Scarlet Knights, who don’t have to play Michigan, Ohio State or Penn State following the elimination of Big Ten divisions.

But let’s also be clear: The Big Ten is still tough. No win will come easily.

So how can the Scarlet Knights have a memorable season?

Dec 28, 2023; Bronx, NY, USA; Rutgers Scarlet Knights head coach Greg Schiano and players run on to the field before the 2023 Pinstripe Bowl against Miami Hurricanes at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports

Here’s a look at five games that could have a large say in the direction of Rutgers’ season:

At Virginia Tech, Sept. 21

This is arguably the biggest game of the season. It’s by far Rutgers’ toughest nonconference game of the season. It’s on the road in a raucous, roaring environment that’s tough for visiting teams. But it also comes following an early-season bye week as the third game of the season. If the Scarlet Knights can beat Virginia Tech, which they did at home last season before the Hokies found their way and ultimately finished the season 7-6, they would enter Big Ten play 3-0 and would host Washington on a Friday night in prime time in the following game. Virginia Tech is well-coached and it has a good quarterback in Kyron Drones. A win here for Rutgers would give the Scarlet Knights clear command of the early part of their schedule.

Especially if they can win the next one…

Vs. Washington, Sept. 27

This game is a major opportunity for Rutgers. Again, if Rutgers beats Virginia Tech, this has the chance to be an incredible atmosphere at SHI Stadium under the lights. It would almost certainly be a sold-out, loud crowd….

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/rutgers-footballs-2024-season-hinge-080736208.html

Author : App.com | Asbury Park Press

Publish date : 2024-08-07 08:07:36

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