Rutgers head coach Greg Schiano - Barry Reeger / Associated Press
Class of 2027 EDGE recruit Josiah Sturdivant has reopened his recruitment after previously committing to Rutgers, according to Pete Nakos and Chad Simmons of On3.
Sturdivant is a three-star edge who previously committed to the Scarlet Knights on May 30. According to the On3 ratings, the former Rutgers commit is the 26th from North Carolina and the No. 69 EDGE rusher in the 2027 class.
As Rutgers falls to 0-2 to start the season, the Scarlet Knights’ record’s effect on recruiting could be something to monitor.
Looking at Rutgers’ 2027 Recruiting Class
Despite Sturdivant reopening his recruitment, the Scarlet Knights still have 19 commits with time to add players. Of the 19 commits, two are in-state prospects: wide receiver Isaiah Alvarez and tight end Sydney Padilla.
Per On3, the Scarlet Knights’ 2027 recruiting class ranks No. 48 in the nation and No. 14 in the Big Ten. Given Rutgers 0-2 start, losing commits could be something that the Scarlet Knights have to monitor and work to avoid.
With the final stretch before the Early Signing Period, Rutgers has an opportunity not only to add a few commitments, but also to ensure their current commits stay content with their decision to play for Rutgers.
Rutgers Tough Start to the Season
It is no secret that after two straight losses, the Scarlet Knights are having a rough start to the season. The program kicked off its season with a massive upset loss against UMass, 37-21. In Week 2, it was close in the fourth quarter, but Rutgers lost to the Boston College Eagles, 28-21.
Rutgers had a fighting chance against the Eagles, but after falling 17-0 to start, the Scarlet Knights were stuck playing catch-up and could not capitalize on their final drive, when they had a chance to even the score or take the lead with a two-point conversion.
Rutgers quarterback AJ Surace went 18-of-27 for 230 yards and four touchdowns, but threw four interceptions. Running back Antwan Raymond led the team on the ground with 27 carries for 134 yards.
When the ground game gets going, Rutgers’ offense opens up, and the team can drive down the field well. One of the most important changes moving forward for the Scarlet Knights is to capitalize while holding possession of the ball and avoid turnovers.
Wide receiver KJ Duff continues to prove to be a massive target for the Rutgers offense in his third season with the program. Duff finished the game with eight receptions for 137 yards and two touchdowns, helping keep Rutgers in the game.
While Rutgers’ offense has to take advantage of strong drives, the defense needs to start stronger. Early stops will help Rutgers avoid playing catch-up throughout the game. With just one sack through two games, the Scarlet Knights defense needs to pressure the quarterback consistently.
One area the defense succeeded at against Boston College was turnovers. Rutgers linebacker Moses Walker had a big game, forcing two interceptions. Defensive back Kevyn Humes earned a fumble recovery, making a big play for Rutgers, helping the team stay in the game.
Looking Ahead for the Scarlet Knights
It will not get easier for Rutgers in Week 3 as they will host the No. 12 USC Trojans. The Trojans are 3-0 to start the season, have a long trip to the East Coast. The Scarlet Knights could take advantage of USC’s long trip and get on the score board early.
The last time Rutgers played USC was in 2024, in which the Scarlet Knights traveled to Southern California. USC got the best of Rutgers, as the Scarlet Knights lost 42-20. USC is the No. 12 team in the country, giving Rutgers a tough task ahead. The Scarlet Knights have the chance to make a big statement against the Trojans.
The USC Trojans are led by quarterback Jayden Maiava, who is off to a hot start, with 869 passing yards and 10 touchdowns this season. The Rutgers defense will have to watch for his mobility, as Maiava has four rushing touchdowns as well.
The Rutgers Scarlet Knights and No. 12 USC Trojans will kick off at 3:30 p.m. ET on Saturday, Sept. 19.
