Rutgers Scarlet Knights quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis (16) carries the ball against the Howard Bison during the second half at SHI Stadium - Vincent Carchietta/USA TODAY Sports
The Rutgers Scarlet Knights are 4-4, set to face the Minnesota Golden Gophers. This is a crucial game for the Scarlet Knights. They are coming off of their bye week and still seeking bowl eligibility. The team is beat up on both sides of the ball, but this is a big game for Rutgers quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis.
Athan Kaliakmanis Revenge Game
This is the first season with Kaliakmanis at quarterback for the Scarlet. Knights. He transferred from Minnesota following the 2023 season. Though revenge may not be the right term, this is a big game for him. It is always meaningful going against a former team.
Kaliakmanis spent three years with Minnesota before transferring. Of the three seasons, he had playing time in two. While competing with the Golden Gophers, he completed 216 passes for 2,784 yards and 17 touchdowns, according to Sports Reference. This season with Rutgers he has completed 131 passes for 1,650 yards and nine touchdowns.
Kaliakmanis has been playing well this season, but it could be better. He has thrown five interceptions. Though the Scarlet Knights are a run-first physical team, expect Kaliakmanis to have a big game against his former team.
Can the Rutgers Scarlet Knights Defense Hold Them?
While the focus will be on the Rutgers offense, the Scarlet Knights’ defense must step up. They allowed the USC Trojans to get too far ahead in week nine, forcing themselves to play catchup in the second half. The defense needs to be sure to not let up too many explosive playes, and get off the field quickly.
Rutgers has dealt with numerous injuries on the defense that are tough to overcome.Hopefully, with the bye week, the Scarlet Knights can come out healthier, and stop the Gophers offense early.
Minnesota started the season rough, but has had some big wins this season. They are not an opponent to take lightly. The Scarlet Knights are 4-4 with three more games to go in the 2024 season. If Rutgers wants to become bowl-eligible, this is an important weekend to step up.
The Rutgers Scarlet Knights will face the Minnesota Golden Gophers at 12 p.m. EST. It will be played at SHI Stadium and it is the second to last home game for Rutgers.
