New Brunswick, NJ – In essence, the Rutgers offense was exactly as advertised, if not better, on Thursday night as they were cruising to what seemed like could be an easy opening football win for the Scarlet Knights. Unfortunately, the new defense that had been poised to make a difference was unable to come together for Week 1, leading to a tight 34-31 final score in favor of Rutgers against the Ohio Bobcats.
Rutgers vs. Ohio Recap
The Parker Navarro Problem
Although the Rutgers defense was disappointing, a main reason for those mistakes and weaknesses was clearly a result of the Ohio quarterback, Parker Navarro.
A key to Rutgers’ success in this game was meant to be keeping Navarro in the backfield. And while they were generally good at that, Navarro still made Rutgers pay.
On the first Ohio drive of the game, the Bobcats were looking to snap back after allowing a quick touchdown on the opening drive. Navarro, being held back by an improved Rutgers’ defensive line, made two incredible passes to his receivers. Then he found his open tight end to complete what was really a miracle drive.
Later in the game as the Rutgers defense seemingly deteriorated, Navarro began to open up the jets. He ran for a total of 93 yards and a touchdown on the ground. His longest single rush was 28 yards, where it seemed that he would never be tackled. He cut up a scrambling secondary while refusing to even attempt a slide or any move of that manner.
Navarro played incredibly, to put it simply, and completed another three touchdowns via the air, and passed for 239 yards.
The Three Musketeers
Despite a clearly devastating loss of star running back Kyle Monangai, Rutgers has bounced back better than anyone could have expected with the growth of Antwan Raymond and Ja’shon Benjamin, and the addition of CJ Campbell Jr.
Raymond, now a sophomore, opened the Rutgers season with a bang. He powered through on a tough 4th-and-3 play into the endzone on the opening drive. He continued to perform incredibly well throughout the rest of the game, totaling 14 carries for 88 yards with the one touchdown.
CJ Campell Jr., the FAU transfer, looked strong as well in his Rutgers debut. Campbell put up 70 yards on 10 carries with a long 22-yard rush. He already seems to be a cohesive part of the constantly evolving Rutgers run game that will only get stronger as the year goes on.
Although he was not given many chances on Thursday, Ja’shon Benjamin is still expected to be an important part of the running back trio. He’s also the team’s current kick returner. He had 17 yards on three carries as well as a 27-yard kick return.
Go Big or Go Home
Greg Schiano is entering a brand new era of Rutgers football. With a quarterback in his second year with the team, a receiving core he can trust, and the power trio in the backfield, his offensive options have finally been fully fleshed out.
With that being said, Schiano was bold early on. He went for it on five fourth downs, and was successful on all five. Two pivotal moments include on the opening drive when quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis was able to dump a quick pass off to transfer DT Sheffield. Later, he converted a fourth down attempt that led to the Antwan Raymond touchdown.
Their final attempt really saved the game for Rutgers, though. With just 1:54 left in the fourth quarter, Schiano decided to go for it on 4th-and-7, and was ultimately successful via another reception from DT Sheffield.
Everyone Played a Role
Rutgers’ touchdowns came courtesy of a multitude of different players. And ultimately, that will be their biggest strength this year.
The special teams, along with Cam Miller, made an incredible play via a bad snap and blocked punt that led to a quick scoop and score. It really cemented Rutgers as a true all-around team despite the defensive woes.
On offense, it is clear that the running backs can make plays. The trio of receivers in Ian Strong, KJ Duff, and transfer DT Sheffield will almost always be open in some way. And, Kaliakmanis is comfortable with the team that is playing around him.
Greg Schiano will do a great job of continuing to grow this team and fix what it struggles with, but for now, that was an impressive and well-fought win for the Scarlet Knights.
Up Next
Rutgers will remain at home for Week 2, and they take on Miami of Ohio on Saturday, September 6.
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