Rutgers Scarlet Knights running back Samuel Brown V (27) runs the ball during the first quarter against the Virginia Tech Hokies at Lane Stadium. Mandatory - Peter Casey/Imagn Images
The Rutgers Scarlet Knights are on a two-game losing streak and must turn things around soon. Rutgers will next face the UCLA Bruins on Oct 19. Sitting at 4-2, Rutgers is still not bowl-eligible. How can the Rutgers Scarlet Knights turn their season around?
No Samuel Brown V
While Rutgers running back Kyle Monangai is the star of the offense, Samuel Brown V is a big reason that the offense has found success. Brown coming in has given Monangai breaks. Brown will miss the remainder of the 2024 season. This is a brutal loss for the Rutgers Scarlet Knights.
This season, Brown has rushed the ball for 201 yards and three touchdowns, according to ESPN. He averages five yards per carry. Brown took the stress off of Monangai, but now someone else will have to step up. The next player to watch for is freshman running back Antwan Raymond. Raymond has 27 carries for 137 yards and two touchdowns this season. Now being prepared, it can be his turn to step up.
Receivers Making the Catches
When the offense cannot get the run game going, the Scarlet Knights receivers need to make the key catches. Rutgers quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis completed just 12 passes for 103 yards, according to ESPN. He also threw one interception. There was no passing game against Wisconsin in week seven. This needs to be better.
Wide receiver Dymere Miller had six receptions, the most of any player, but just for 17 yards. Rutgers receiver Christian Dremel had just two receptions but for 54 yards. Not being able to pass the ball made it too hard for Rutgers to run the ball.
Rutgers does not have to be the top throwing team. They are very physical, and that makes the run game work. But there needs to be better passing plays to throw off the opposing defenses.
Rutgers Scarlet Knights Vs. UCLA Bruins
If the Scarlet Knights are planning to turn their season around, it will be the week eight matchup against the UCLA Bruins. In a way, Rutgers needs the win. The Bruins have a 1-5 record. Though the Scarlet Knights are banged up, it is a home game, and homecoming weekend for them. UCLA has not been a threat in the Big Ten, though they did keep it close against Penn State in the first half. Rutgers will need to get the momentum going early and keep with it throughout.
The Rutgers Scarlet Knights will kick off against the UCLA Bruins on Oct. 19 at SHI Stadium.
