Rutgers Scarlet Knights

Rutgers opened 2026 with a stunning 37-21 home loss to UMass, a team that had lost 16 straight. The Scarlet Knights turned the ball over five times (four interceptions, one fumble) and allowed 397 yards. The turnover problem persisted: through three games, Rutgers had a -7 turnover margin and had thrown nine interceptions combined from Dylan Lonergan and AJ Surace. The 0-3 start was the program's first since 2008, and the defense allowed at least 35 points in each of the first three games.

Wide receiver KJ Duff has been spectacular, posting nine catches for 196 yards and three touchdowns against UMass, adding two more scores at Boston College, and catching five passes for 131 yards and a touchdown versus Howard. He became the first player in program history to catch a touchdown in five straight games and reached 2,000 career receiving yards. Running back Antwan Raymond also eclipsed 2,000 career rushing yards and ran for 140 yards and three touchdowns in the Howard win. The duo gives Rutgers two of the Big Ten's most productive skill players.

After allowing 37, 28, and 42 points in the first three games, the defense finally had a competent outing in the 58-7 rout of Howard, recording four sacks, two interceptions, and a fumble recovery while giving up just one play over 20 yards. However, that performance came against an FCS opponent. Against Indiana, the unit was shredded for 593 total yards in a 47-15 loss. The Scarlet Knights started 10 new players on defense and are still searching for consistency under first-year coordinator Travis Johansen.

The competition between Dylan Lonergan and AJ Surace has been a season-long storyline. Lonergan threw four interceptions and lost a fumble in the opener before being lifted with an injury. Surace made his first start at Boston College and threw four picks of his own, though he also had three touchdowns. Lonergan had a breakout game against Howard (214 yards, two TDs in three quarters) but left the Indiana game with an injury. The inconsistency at quarterback has hampered the offense and contributed to the turnover problems.

At 2-4, Rutgers needs four wins in its final six games to become bowl eligible. The schedule remains challenging, with a road trip to Northwestern next, followed by games against Michigan and Wisconsin. The offense has shown an upward trajectory, scoring 58 against Howard and 37 against Maryland in a 37-30 road win. However, the defense must build on its Howard performance and the quarterbacks must protect the ball. The return of a healthy Lonergan and continued production from Duff and Raymond are critical. The Scarlet Knights have the talent to compete, but their margin for error is slim.