Rutgers Faces Penn State With Renewed Hope After Brave Stand Against Ohio State

Dublin, Ohio— The Scarlet Knights lost at Ohio Stadium despite playing harder and with more heart than expected against the greatest team in the country. No. 1 Ohio State couldn’t score because Rutgers’ defense forced them from the one-yard line to the 11-yard line midway through the third quarter, 14-3 behind. Julian Sayin’s 11-yard touchdown pass to Max Klare ended the Scarlet Knights’ chances.

The Scarlet Knights showed they can compete with the best despite losing 42–9. It’s unclear what Rutgers’ 5-6 and 2-6 Big Ten finishes entail. Ohio State had skill, strength, and depth, but Rutgers was better on offense and defense.

Rutgers will be ready for its final game against Penn State in Piscataway if it follows Columbus’ advice. Rutgers can compete with good teams and be interesting. Penn State must avoid blunders to reach the bowl game.

Rutgers’ defense looked good despite being harassed all season. After recovering a fumble on the goal line early, the Knights forced another three-and-out. Defensive tackle Bradley Weaver chased the quarterback. Nickelback Cam Miller and safety Kaj Sanders blocked up crucial passes. Rutgers’ defense was limited by costly calls like Weaver’s roughing the quarterback. Ohio State led and won the second half after these mistakes.

Ohio State’s defense thwarted Rutgers. Scarlet Knights ran 35 times for 66 yards, 147 yards. They reached the red zone in Q4. Kaliakmanis completed 17 throws, seven of which were 81 yards. He was fired 4 times. Antwan Raymond and Samuel Brown gained yards, but Ohio State’s defense stopped them.

Smart Guys on the Scarlet Knights struggled. KJ Duff, Ian Tough, and DT Sheffield struggled to create huge plays due to tight pass and covering defenses. Despite the difficulty, Rutgers had the ball for 27 minutes. This ended the game and proved they exploited their possession time.

Rutgers may benefit from the close game with the #1 team, even though Ohio State won. Knights’ fight proves Penn State won’t fear them. Rutgers’ last chance to play in the bowl. They must play passionately.

The Scarlet Knights are improving due to their issues, as this game versus Ohio State indicates. Rutgers supporters should expect a tough Penn State matchup.

Sources:

• NCAA College Football Statistics

• Big Ten Conference Official Reports

• Rutgers University Athletics Department

• Ohio State University Athletics