Rutgers Scarlet Knights

Rutgers entered the season needing to replace Athan Kaliakmanis, one of the best quarterbacks in program history. The battle between redshirt sophomore AJ Surace and Boston College transfer Dylan Lonergan has not produced a clear starter through the first game. Both have shown flashes but also inconsistency, leaving the offense without a settled leader. The decision will shape the entire season, as the Scarlet Knights rely on a balanced attack built around their running game and star wide receiver KJ Duff.

The offensive line lost starters Gus Zilinskas and Bryan Felter to graduation, and new line coach Jim Turner has shuffled multiple combinations at tackle and left guard. Kwabena Asamoah is a steady presence at right guard, but the unit has struggled to create consistent running lanes and protect the quarterback. In the opener, the line allowed several pressures and failed to establish the ground game early, a concern for a team that wants to control the clock and protect its young quarterback.

After fielding the worst defense in the Big Ten last season, Greg Schiano fired his co-coordinators and hired Travis Johansen from South Dakota. The new staff has installed an aggressive scheme that generated multiple pressures and a key turnover in the first game. The return of interior lineman Doug Blue-Eli from injury has bolstered the run defense, and the cornerback competition has produced a more athletic secondary. While still a work in progress, the defense looks improved and more disruptive than a year ago.

Kicker Jai Patel, punter Jakob Anderson, and long-snapper Michael O'Connor all returned from a unit that was solid last season. Patel connected on both field goal attempts in the opener, including one from beyond 40 yards, and Anderson averaged over 44 yards per punt with good placement. The Scarlet Knights continue to be aggressive in blocking kicks, nearly getting a hand on a punt in the first game. Special teams provide a steady floor while the offense and defense find their footing.

In Year 7 of Schiano's second stint, the program expects to reach a bowl game after a disappointing 2025. The Scarlet Knights have the talent at skill positions with Antwan Raymond and KJ Duff to compete in the Big Ten, but the quarterback and offensive line questions create uncertainty. The defense's improvement will be critical, as Rutgers must win the games it is supposed to win and steal a few against tougher opponents. The next few weeks will reveal whether this team can meet the minimum standard or if the rebuilding process will take longer.