On Saturday, September 7, it’s Rutgers football (1-0) vs. the Akron Zips (0-1) in the second game of the 2024 season. The Scarlet Knights seek to start 2-0 for the fourth straight season as kickoff is slated for noon on Saturday. TV coverage will be provided on the Big Ten Network and the FOX Sports app.
Under head coach Greg Schiano, Rutgers football is 51-20 in non-conference games, winning eight consecutive games (12 of the last 13). The Scarlet Knights are coming off a 44-7 victory against Howard last week; in which 15 players made their team debut in the opener, 10 made their collegiate debut, and five earned their first career start. As for the Zips, Akron is looking to bounce back from their 52-6 loss to Ohio State in their season opener.
Rutgers vs. Akron Matchup History
On Saturday, Rutgers and Akron are set to meet for the second time in program history. The first matchup came on October 27, 1990, when Rutgers captured a 20-17 home victory. With only five minutes remaining and trailing 17-13, the Scarlet Knights rallied from behind to defeat Akron on Homecoming. Against the Mid-American Conference, Rutgers football is 12-5-1 against teams currently in the conference.
Rutgers Football game highs versus Akron
- Rushing Yards: RB Tekay Dorsey, 78 (1990)
- Passing Yards: QB Tom Tarver, 190 (1990)
- Receiving Yards: WR Chris Brantley, 74 (1990)
Key Players for Rutgers football
Rutgers running back Kyle Monangai is a must-watch in this matchup. Monangai matched his career high with 165 rushing yards on 19 carries (8.7 average) against Howard and will look to continue his hot start against the Zips. The reigning Big Ten rushing leader joined freshman running back Antwan Raymond with a rushing touchdown. Also, Rutgers posted 329 yards on the ground overall, the most in a game since recording 375 versus Howard in 2016.
Minnesota transfer quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis had a stellar Rutgers debut last week, throwing three touchdowns. He found wide receiver Dymere Miller, running back Samuel Brown V, and tight end Kenny Fletcher for scores while throwing for 147 yards.
On the defense, look for linebacker Dariel Djabome to anchor the Rutgers’ defense for the second consecutive week. The junior linebacker led the team with 14 tackles (career-high). Also, the Scarlet Knights had four players on defense to make their first collegiate start (defensive back Kaj Sanders, lineman Jordan Thompson, and linebacker Moses Walker), adding depth throughout their roster.
Key Players for the Zips
Against Ohio State, three quarterbacks saw action for the Zips as redshirt junior Tahj Bullock paced both the passing (68 yards) and rushing (42 yards) categories. Redshirt junior Ben Finley earned the start for the Zips, logging eight completions for 53 yards and one interception. Also, redshirt sophomore running back Charles Kellom added nine yards on the ground, averaging three yards per attempt.
Akron tight end Jake Newell and junior running back Jordan Simmons earned most of the targets last week. Newell reeled in two catches for 41 yards to lead the receiving group, while Simmons caught four passes for 25 yards.
On defense, junior safety Daymon David led the Akron defense with six tackles while redshirt junior defensive lineman CJ Nunnally IV and senior linebacker each had five tackles.
Rutgers Blueprint for Success
The Scarlet Knights have a 14-1 record since 2020 when not committing a turnover in a game and will look to continue that success against Akron. Also, the Scarlet Knights are 39-17 when scoring non-offensive touchdowns under Schiano as their defense will look to cause multiple takeaways.
Against Howard, Rutgers scored on six of their final seven offensive drives (five touchdowns). If Rutgers’ offense can continue their hot start, it will be a long game for the Zips. Look for Rutgers to lean on their powerful rushing attack behind Monangai as he leads the Scarlet Knights to a second victory in 2024.
Mike Cavallo
A sportswriter for The League Winners covering all Rutgers athletics. Follow my social media page for all coverage of Rutgers sports. X (Twitter): @M_Cavs55