Rutgers Scarlet Knights Suffer Embarrassing Loss at Home

Saturday afternoon, the Scarlet Knights (4-2) were defeated at home by the Wisconsin Badgers (4-2), 42-7. While the stadium was filled to the brim (50,111 in attendance) and the energy was electric throughout the game, the Scarlet Knights couldn’t match the fans' excitement as the game progressed. Sadly, many left disappointed, including the recruits who came to watch the Scarlet Knights put on a show.

Throughout the game, the Scarlet Knights made uncharacteristic mistakes that proved to be costly. Some suggested that the Scarlet Knights beat themselves; however, Rutgers head coach Greg Schiano made sure to clarify that they were outplayed in all facets that day.

“I don't think you can say that when you get whooped the way we did, that we beat ourselves,” Schiano explained. “I think we certainly—again, I can go through all the things we didn't do. At the end of the day, it's my job to make sure we're ready, and we weren't. So, that's what I have to do. Trust me, I'm not fired up about doing it, but that's my job. We'll get done here, see the recruits, and then get to work.”

What Went Wrong?

From the start, Rutgers seemed to be out of rhythm defensively and offensively. In the opening quarter, the Scarlet Knights gave up two touchdowns—one through the air and one on the ground. This setback proved insurmountable as the game progressed. Despite being considered one of the best defenses in the country, they allowed 549 total yards. The Badgers threw for 240 yards and ran for 309 yards.

“The team, the whole day, couldn't chew gum and walk at the same time as a group,” Schiano continued. “We just couldn't get it going—coaching, playing, everything. But no, I'm not ready to sit here after one game and say the sky is falling. We've got work to do, and we'll do it. The challenge is to get back on track, decide what needs to be adjusted, and then go adjust it.”

Ultimately, the Badgers found ways to be effective and exploit this defense, which at times appeared impenetrable. Despite the lackluster performance, the Scarlet Knights had some positives to build on. The defense forced two turnovers, and linebackers Dariel Djabome and Moses Walker each totaled 12 tackles to lead the defense, while DL Jordan Walker picked up his second sack of the season. Offensive struggles continued, but RB Kyle Monangai produced 19 carries for 72 yards and his seventh rushing touchdown of the season. QB Athan Kaliakmanis completed 12 passes, including a 36-yard connection with WR Christian Dremel.

What’s Next for the Scarlet Knights?

Rutgers football's matchup against UCLA at SHI Stadium on Oct. 19 will be part of Homecoming & Family Weekend on campus. Kickoff is set for noon on FS1.

Game Notes:

Attendance: 50,111

1st Qtr:

• Missed opportunities
• 2nd Qtr:
• Rutgers down 14-0
• Huge play for Rutgers: Athan drops a dime ball near the red zone
• Rutgers pushing into the red zone
• Big 4th and 1 in the red zone, Rutgers looks like they're going for it
• 2:37: 14-0 Wisconsin
• Conversion no good, Wisconsin kills momentum
• Rutgers defense needs to answer
• Rutgers attempting to get the ball back before halftime
• 1:56: 14-0 Wisconsin
• Wisconsin attempting to drudge down the field
• Rutgers takes final timeout to force a punt before the half
• 1:26: 14-0 Wisconsin
• 1:18 remaining for Rutgers to make a push before halftime
• Wisconsin containing Kyle and the running game
• Athan playing efficiently (5 completions)
• Rutgers offense struggling to pick up first downs, let alone points on this drive (three drops for Rutgers on this drive)
• Both teams dropping balls
• :55: 14-0 Wisconsin
• Rutgers HUGE HIT, forced fumble by #28 and recovered by #3 Rutgers
• Rutgers ball on the 30 with 45 seconds remaining
• Athan throwing dangerous balls before halftime
• Turnover results in a three-and-out
• 37-yard FG attempt with 17 seconds remaining: FG is blocked (penalty on the play)
• Rutgers can’t find any points

HALFTIME: 14-0 Wisconsin

3rd Qtr:

• Wisconsin moving the ball with ease
• Driving down through the air and ground
• Two huge plays lead to a scoring drive
• 8:14: 21-0 Wisconsin Rushing Touchdown by D. Dupree (Scoring Drive: 4 plays, 89 yards, 1:45)
• Rutgers being dominated
• 2:59: 28-0 Wisconsin
• Rutgers driving down the field

End of Qtr: 28-0 Wisconsin

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