Tyler
Scarlet Surge
Date Posted: 12/30/08
For the third season in a row the Rutgers Scarlet Knights can say they are champions of a bowl game. This time, RU has put their stamp on the PapaJohns.com bowl in Birmingham, Alabama.
In one of the most exciting games for the Knights all season, Rutgers stood tall facing adversity down 17-6 at the half. They got a huge break, however, when it was learned that Freshman Quarterback Russell Wilson would not return to the game for the Wolfpack of North Carolina State. Wilson single handily sliced the Knights not only in the passing game, but just as efficiently in the run game as well. The loss of Wilson showed how anemic the Wolfpack were without him on offense. They scored just six points (one touchdown, attempt at the two point conversion failed) in the second half.
Mike Teel's deep 42 yard pass to Kenny Britt proved to be the difference as Rutgers rolled 29-23 over NC State. Teel finished the day 22 of 37 for 321 yards, and 2 touchdowns as he went on to win the bowl game MVP. Britt had a fine day himself hauling in 6 Teel passes for 119 yards and a score. Rutgers third straight bowl victory shows where the state of the program is now at, and where they may be headed. We can only hope it goes north from here.
Bowl game notes: "Jersey" Joe Martinek rushed for 58 yards, all coming in the second half. When he got the ball, he was more than effective averaging 6.4 yards per carry. Tiquan Underwood also contributed quite well for the Knights, bringing in 4 passes for 51 yards and a touchdown. Jack Corcoran was a major part of the RU offensive air attack with 6 receptions for 62 yards in arguably his best performance as a Scarlet Knight. Rutgers forced 4 turnovers on the day. Jason McCourty recovered a fumble on NC State's opening play from scrimmage. Ryan D'Imperio had a key interception late in the 3rd quarter. Devin McCourty also contributed with a timely interception himself in the 4th quarter. Courtney Greene sealed the game by picking off Daniel Evans on a final hail mary attempt. It was a well played game, just four penalities were called.
Thanks for reading on this season on Scarlet Surge - all your RU football news can be found here. I will be writing every week or with updates on the team, recruiting news and statues of players during the off-season so check back often for updated news. Thanks again, and Go Scarlet Knights!
Monday, December 29, 2008
Friday, December 19, 2008
2008 Scarlet Awards
Tyler
Scarlet Surge
Date Posted: 12/19/08
I'm back to give out some of my awards. I saw every game this season, and went to each and every home game. Let me know what you think of my choices for a few awards!
Offensive player of the year: Kenny Britt, WR. I'm pretty sure there is no arguing this one. Kenny was one of the best wide out's in the country this year. It's sad he hasn't gotten the media attention that he should. He made the 1st team All-Big East but no All-American selection disappointed me. He'll be making the jump to the pros, and whoever selects him will be getting a great one. One more game for Britt against NC state in the bowl game, but it's been fun watching Kenny. Thanks for the memories!
Defensive player of the year: Kevin Malast, LB. Led the team with 96 tackles, and also had an interception against Pittsburgh that helped seal the big victory in the Steel City. Kevin has been a great, and quite underrated linebacker in his tenure with the Knights. He should get a look in the NFL, as he is a senior, and will have his last game versus NC state on December 29th.
Biggest surprise of the year: Jourdan Brooks, HB. In the chances he got, he was pretty good overall. His best game was the last one, against Louisville. I expect him to get a good amount of carries against NC state. He's a big bruiser, and will be exciting to watch for years to come. He's just a freshman!
Most resilient player of the year: Mike Teel, QB. I knew we had to find an award for this guy. I came in as the biggest Mike Teel fan, and as the biggest. When Rutgers played Illinois at home to open up the season, I was the one in he stands with a "TEEL FOR HEISMAN" sign. It's been fun to watch this guy the past few seasons, and he goes out as the best RU QB of all-time. Man, I really hope he gets a shot in the NFL. Good luck, Mike.
Those are my 2008 Scarlet Awards. Check back next week sometime for a preview of the Papajohns.com bowl versus NC state!
Scarlet Surge
Date Posted: 12/19/08
I'm back to give out some of my awards. I saw every game this season, and went to each and every home game. Let me know what you think of my choices for a few awards!
Offensive player of the year: Kenny Britt, WR. I'm pretty sure there is no arguing this one. Kenny was one of the best wide out's in the country this year. It's sad he hasn't gotten the media attention that he should. He made the 1st team All-Big East but no All-American selection disappointed me. He'll be making the jump to the pros, and whoever selects him will be getting a great one. One more game for Britt against NC state in the bowl game, but it's been fun watching Kenny. Thanks for the memories!
Defensive player of the year: Kevin Malast, LB. Led the team with 96 tackles, and also had an interception against Pittsburgh that helped seal the big victory in the Steel City. Kevin has been a great, and quite underrated linebacker in his tenure with the Knights. He should get a look in the NFL, as he is a senior, and will have his last game versus NC state on December 29th.
Biggest surprise of the year: Jourdan Brooks, HB. In the chances he got, he was pretty good overall. His best game was the last one, against Louisville. I expect him to get a good amount of carries against NC state. He's a big bruiser, and will be exciting to watch for years to come. He's just a freshman!
Most resilient player of the year: Mike Teel, QB. I knew we had to find an award for this guy. I came in as the biggest Mike Teel fan, and as the biggest. When Rutgers played Illinois at home to open up the season, I was the one in he stands with a "TEEL FOR HEISMAN" sign. It's been fun to watch this guy the past few seasons, and he goes out as the best RU QB of all-time. Man, I really hope he gets a shot in the NFL. Good luck, Mike.
Those are my 2008 Scarlet Awards. Check back next week sometime for a preview of the Papajohns.com bowl versus NC state!
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Game Twelve Preview:
Tyler
Scarlet Surge
Date Posted: 12/3/08
Thursday night games are great, aren't they? Well, I guess it isn't 2006, but it will sort of feel like it in Piscataway, N.J. as Louisville comes to town to face off against the Knights of Rutgers. Still, this game will be an exciting match up between the two rivals.
It is Senior night for Rutgers as the Seniors will play their final home games as a Scarlet Knight, and it could also mean the end for Kenny Britt on the banks of the ole' Raritan. These seniors have all had great careers, guys such as Mike Teel, Tiquan Underwood, Courtney Greene (started all four years), Jamaal Westerman, and Pete Tverdov really stand out among the 18 that will be departing. Here is a complete list of the 2009 class that has a chance to be the first class in RU history to go to four consecutive bowls.
LS Jeremy Branch, TE Kevin Brock, OL Mike Gilmartin, FS Courtney Greene, DB Glen Lee, LB Kevin Malast, CB Jason McCourty, TE Craig McGovern, DB Mark Orosz, LB Chris Quaye, DT Kevin Small, DB Davon Smart, QB Mike Teel, LB Brian Tracey, DT Pete Tverdov, WR Tiquan Underwood, DE Jamaal Westerman.
As for the actual game, Rutgers will be gunning for their 7th straight victory, as Louisville comes in at 5-6 looking to become bowl eligibile. Rutgers dominated last years contest, until finding a way to blow it in the 4th quarter and eventually ended up finding a way to lose.
Louisville comes in as a strong running team, and a weak passing team. This is quite a contrast compared to the past few seasons with QB Brian Brohm at the helm. This year QB Hunter Cantwell has been very inconsistent, but this has opened up opportunites for Louisville's run game to blossom.
If Rutgers can continue their offensive dominance as they have the past several weeks, they should have no problem winning this game. Louisville is a vastly different team with Cantwell at the controls compared to Brian Brohm. The Cardinals are not a squad that can play from behind with their woes in the passing game and lack of a WR that can stretch the field.
I expect RU to jump on Louisville early and often.
My prediction:
Rutgers 33
Louisville 20
Game Ball: Mike Teel. In his final home game, Teel goes off on the Cardinals. 19-27, 303 yards, 3 tds, 1 int.
Game Time: 7:45 PM E.T.
Site: Rutgers Stadium, Piscataway, N.J.
Weather: 35 degrees. Cloudy. 30% chance of on and off showers.
Lets go RU! Come out and support the seniors in their final game!
Scarlet Surge
Date Posted: 12/3/08
Thursday night games are great, aren't they? Well, I guess it isn't 2006, but it will sort of feel like it in Piscataway, N.J. as Louisville comes to town to face off against the Knights of Rutgers. Still, this game will be an exciting match up between the two rivals.
It is Senior night for Rutgers as the Seniors will play their final home games as a Scarlet Knight, and it could also mean the end for Kenny Britt on the banks of the ole' Raritan. These seniors have all had great careers, guys such as Mike Teel, Tiquan Underwood, Courtney Greene (started all four years), Jamaal Westerman, and Pete Tverdov really stand out among the 18 that will be departing. Here is a complete list of the 2009 class that has a chance to be the first class in RU history to go to four consecutive bowls.
LS Jeremy Branch, TE Kevin Brock, OL Mike Gilmartin, FS Courtney Greene, DB Glen Lee, LB Kevin Malast, CB Jason McCourty, TE Craig McGovern, DB Mark Orosz, LB Chris Quaye, DT Kevin Small, DB Davon Smart, QB Mike Teel, LB Brian Tracey, DT Pete Tverdov, WR Tiquan Underwood, DE Jamaal Westerman.
As for the actual game, Rutgers will be gunning for their 7th straight victory, as Louisville comes in at 5-6 looking to become bowl eligibile. Rutgers dominated last years contest, until finding a way to blow it in the 4th quarter and eventually ended up finding a way to lose.
Louisville comes in as a strong running team, and a weak passing team. This is quite a contrast compared to the past few seasons with QB Brian Brohm at the helm. This year QB Hunter Cantwell has been very inconsistent, but this has opened up opportunites for Louisville's run game to blossom.
If Rutgers can continue their offensive dominance as they have the past several weeks, they should have no problem winning this game. Louisville is a vastly different team with Cantwell at the controls compared to Brian Brohm. The Cardinals are not a squad that can play from behind with their woes in the passing game and lack of a WR that can stretch the field.
I expect RU to jump on Louisville early and often.
My prediction:
Rutgers 33
Louisville 20
Game Ball: Mike Teel. In his final home game, Teel goes off on the Cardinals. 19-27, 303 yards, 3 tds, 1 int.
Game Time: 7:45 PM E.T.
Site: Rutgers Stadium, Piscataway, N.J.
Weather: 35 degrees. Cloudy. 30% chance of on and off showers.
Lets go RU! Come out and support the seniors in their final game!
Friday, November 21, 2008
Game Eleven Preview: Army @ Rutgers
Tyler
Scarlet Surge
Date Posted: 11/21/08
Since Thanksgiving is coming up, it reminded me of something I am truly thankful for: my awful predictions.
Last week, I predicted Rutgers losing to South Florida six points. Could I have been more wrong? Rutgers wiped USF by the final score of 49-16. So this holiday season, I'm thankful for my wrong predictions.
It was a big win for Rutgers, no doubt, but it will be meaningless if they can't finish the season with two more wins. RU has a chance to go 8-5, that'd be with a bowl victory, but the biggest thing they can do right now is beat Army, and then Louisville. That would ensure that A. They'd go to a bowl game and B. They'd be above .500 once again, which is important to continue to keep getting better as a program.
Fans must realize this has been a successful year if we can finish out 7-5, or 8-5. It may not have been that top 10 ranked, 11-2 type season we've come to expect following the 2006 campaign, but it offers hope for next year that we can continue to improve consistently each and every year, despite starting this season off 1-5.
Now onto the game preview. Army is a run first team, who has been pretty successful at doing so. Don't expect many pass attempts like the Knights of Rutgers saw last weekend versus USF. Army will only throw a few times per game. One game that they won this season they threw just 3 passes, completing NONE of them, but still came away with the W. Although Army is just 3-7 on the year, they have shown great improvement over last season, thanks to fullback Collin Mooney. Mooney has rushed for 1,173 yards and 8 touchdowns, averaging 6 yards per carry. He will be just another talented back the Scarlet Knights will have to face. Rutgers should be fine defensively as they've been able to handle most rushing attacks thrown at them this season. Don't expect RU to be able to force six turnovers like last week though, as Army won't put the ball on the ground much.
When Rutgers is on offense, they should be able to use their supperior speed to go right by the Black Knights. RU will probably show a balenced attack of run and pass, but I think if they can get Teel in a rhythem early, this game won't even be close. I expect to see a heavy dose of Joe Martinek this week, with some Young sprinkled in, as well as a few carries for Jourdan Brooks and Mason Robinson. Despite playing all four backs, I fully expect Joe Martinek seeing most of the carries after his impressive performance last week against USF. Now onto...
My Prediction:
Army 10
Rutgers 34
Game Ball: Kenny Britt. The junior from Bayonne, NJ has a huge game. 11 rec., 201 yards, 2 td.
Game Time: 12:00 PM E.T.
Site: Rutgers Stadium. Piscataway, NJ.
Weather: Mostly Sunny. COLD. High of 30 degrees. Winds 15-30 mph.
Lets hope my prediction is actually right this time. Go Scarlet Knights!
Scarlet Surge
Date Posted: 11/21/08
Since Thanksgiving is coming up, it reminded me of something I am truly thankful for: my awful predictions.
Last week, I predicted Rutgers losing to South Florida six points. Could I have been more wrong? Rutgers wiped USF by the final score of 49-16. So this holiday season, I'm thankful for my wrong predictions.
It was a big win for Rutgers, no doubt, but it will be meaningless if they can't finish the season with two more wins. RU has a chance to go 8-5, that'd be with a bowl victory, but the biggest thing they can do right now is beat Army, and then Louisville. That would ensure that A. They'd go to a bowl game and B. They'd be above .500 once again, which is important to continue to keep getting better as a program.
Fans must realize this has been a successful year if we can finish out 7-5, or 8-5. It may not have been that top 10 ranked, 11-2 type season we've come to expect following the 2006 campaign, but it offers hope for next year that we can continue to improve consistently each and every year, despite starting this season off 1-5.
Now onto the game preview. Army is a run first team, who has been pretty successful at doing so. Don't expect many pass attempts like the Knights of Rutgers saw last weekend versus USF. Army will only throw a few times per game. One game that they won this season they threw just 3 passes, completing NONE of them, but still came away with the W. Although Army is just 3-7 on the year, they have shown great improvement over last season, thanks to fullback Collin Mooney. Mooney has rushed for 1,173 yards and 8 touchdowns, averaging 6 yards per carry. He will be just another talented back the Scarlet Knights will have to face. Rutgers should be fine defensively as they've been able to handle most rushing attacks thrown at them this season. Don't expect RU to be able to force six turnovers like last week though, as Army won't put the ball on the ground much.
When Rutgers is on offense, they should be able to use their supperior speed to go right by the Black Knights. RU will probably show a balenced attack of run and pass, but I think if they can get Teel in a rhythem early, this game won't even be close. I expect to see a heavy dose of Joe Martinek this week, with some Young sprinkled in, as well as a few carries for Jourdan Brooks and Mason Robinson. Despite playing all four backs, I fully expect Joe Martinek seeing most of the carries after his impressive performance last week against USF. Now onto...
My Prediction:
Army 10
Rutgers 34
Game Ball: Kenny Britt. The junior from Bayonne, NJ has a huge game. 11 rec., 201 yards, 2 td.
Game Time: 12:00 PM E.T.
Site: Rutgers Stadium. Piscataway, NJ.
Weather: Mostly Sunny. COLD. High of 30 degrees. Winds 15-30 mph.
Lets hope my prediction is actually right this time. Go Scarlet Knights!
Friday, November 14, 2008
Game Ten Preview: Rutgers @ South Florida
Tyler
Scarlet Surge
Date Posted: 11/14/08
Although I seem to say this week in and week out, this is Rutgers most important game. And probably toughest test of the season thus far (at least in conference). The Knights will travel to Tampa to take on the USF Bulls in a showdown that is quickly becoming a rivalry. These are two teams that battle for recruits each and every year, as Rutgers has a good pipeline down in Florida, so for sure, this is more than just another Big East game. Not just for great games on the field, but competition off the field as well.
South Florida will come at you with a Shotgun-Spread attack, Grothe at the helm another year. Grothe was solid, but not great in a loss that South Florida (then ranked #2) could have been able to win against RU last year. South Florida has lost to Rutgers the past two seasons, so they have extra motivation on the line in this one. USF has lost the past three games, and have quickly fallen out of the rankings, but they remain in the running for the Big East championship. Offensively, Rutgers will need speed on the field at all times. If that means Lefeged spot shadowing Grothe for the second year in a row, so be it, but the Knights will need to be in Nickel or Dime most of the game to compete with the 3, 4, and 5 WR sets USF will throw at them. Last year, Rutgers finished the game with 6 sacks. In my opinion, this will once again be a huge statistic. If Rutgers doesn't give Grothe time to pass or to take off and scramble, Rutgers will have an EXCELLENT chance at pulling off the upset down in Florida.
Rutgers offensively will have a tough task ahead of them as they square off against USF's defense. USF's defense consists of some pretty good players, but one jumps out at you when you watch them play. Defensive end George Selvie. This guy is flat out great. He gives offensive tackles nightmares. However, Rutgers held him in check very well last season, but with three offensive lineman gone from last years squad, this year may write a different story. He'll be the biggest challenge for RU's offense. Once again, like I said last week, I will expect to see a heavy dosage of Kordell Young, Martinek, Robinson, and maybe a carry or two for Brooks. After Martinek's showing last week, he needs more touches. Would love to see some more 'Wildcat' formation out of the Knights. I think Martinek would be a good candidate to try and THROW out of the formation.
My Prediction:
Rutgers 20
South Florida 26
Game Ball: Damaso Munoz. 7 total tackles, 2 tfl, 2 sack.
I think Rutgers is going to end up losing a very close ball game. Unfortunately I don't think we have what it takes to get it done versus USF this season. USF is better than their record shows.
Game Time: 12:00 P.M. E.T.
Site: Raymond James Stadium, Tampa Bay, Florida.
Weather: Possible Thunderstorms and Rain. 79 degrees.
Lets hope my prediction is wrong! Go Knights!
Scarlet Surge
Date Posted: 11/14/08
Although I seem to say this week in and week out, this is Rutgers most important game. And probably toughest test of the season thus far (at least in conference). The Knights will travel to Tampa to take on the USF Bulls in a showdown that is quickly becoming a rivalry. These are two teams that battle for recruits each and every year, as Rutgers has a good pipeline down in Florida, so for sure, this is more than just another Big East game. Not just for great games on the field, but competition off the field as well.
South Florida will come at you with a Shotgun-Spread attack, Grothe at the helm another year. Grothe was solid, but not great in a loss that South Florida (then ranked #2) could have been able to win against RU last year. South Florida has lost to Rutgers the past two seasons, so they have extra motivation on the line in this one. USF has lost the past three games, and have quickly fallen out of the rankings, but they remain in the running for the Big East championship. Offensively, Rutgers will need speed on the field at all times. If that means Lefeged spot shadowing Grothe for the second year in a row, so be it, but the Knights will need to be in Nickel or Dime most of the game to compete with the 3, 4, and 5 WR sets USF will throw at them. Last year, Rutgers finished the game with 6 sacks. In my opinion, this will once again be a huge statistic. If Rutgers doesn't give Grothe time to pass or to take off and scramble, Rutgers will have an EXCELLENT chance at pulling off the upset down in Florida.
Rutgers offensively will have a tough task ahead of them as they square off against USF's defense. USF's defense consists of some pretty good players, but one jumps out at you when you watch them play. Defensive end George Selvie. This guy is flat out great. He gives offensive tackles nightmares. However, Rutgers held him in check very well last season, but with three offensive lineman gone from last years squad, this year may write a different story. He'll be the biggest challenge for RU's offense. Once again, like I said last week, I will expect to see a heavy dosage of Kordell Young, Martinek, Robinson, and maybe a carry or two for Brooks. After Martinek's showing last week, he needs more touches. Would love to see some more 'Wildcat' formation out of the Knights. I think Martinek would be a good candidate to try and THROW out of the formation.
My Prediction:
Rutgers 20
South Florida 26
Game Ball: Damaso Munoz. 7 total tackles, 2 tfl, 2 sack.
I think Rutgers is going to end up losing a very close ball game. Unfortunately I don't think we have what it takes to get it done versus USF this season. USF is better than their record shows.
Game Time: 12:00 P.M. E.T.
Site: Raymond James Stadium, Tampa Bay, Florida.
Weather: Possible Thunderstorms and Rain. 79 degrees.
Lets hope my prediction is wrong! Go Knights!
Friday, November 7, 2008
Game Nine Preview: Syracuse @ Rutgers
After an impressive 54-34 against the (then ranked 17) Pittsburgh Panthers, RU returns home to face off against arch-rival the Orangemen.
If Rutgers can get off to a quick start they should be fine in this one. Syracuse brings along a formidable run game in Curtis Brinkley, but Rutgers has shown the ability to keep great backs in tack, and they should be up against the wall once again in that regard.
Offensively, Rutgers has the chance to really go off against a weak defense. I look for a huge game from Kordell Young on the ground, and I do EXPECT Martinek and Brooks to see some action, along with Mason Robinson.
Defensively, I see nothing that Rutgers shouldn't be able to stop. Brinkley is a nice weapon, but he's no heisman candidate. The Knights should roll in this one.
My Prediction:
'Cuse 7
Rutgers 24
Game Ball: Kordell Young. He has a break out game. 19 carries, 142 yards, 2 touchdowns. Also 3 rec., 23 yards.
Game Time: 12:00 P.M. ET
Site: Rutgers Stadium, Piscataway, N.J.
Weather: 60 degrees. Rain on and off at 60% chance.
That's it for this week. Go RU!
If Rutgers can get off to a quick start they should be fine in this one. Syracuse brings along a formidable run game in Curtis Brinkley, but Rutgers has shown the ability to keep great backs in tack, and they should be up against the wall once again in that regard.
Offensively, Rutgers has the chance to really go off against a weak defense. I look for a huge game from Kordell Young on the ground, and I do EXPECT Martinek and Brooks to see some action, along with Mason Robinson.
Defensively, I see nothing that Rutgers shouldn't be able to stop. Brinkley is a nice weapon, but he's no heisman candidate. The Knights should roll in this one.
My Prediction:
'Cuse 7
Rutgers 24
Game Ball: Kordell Young. He has a break out game. 19 carries, 142 yards, 2 touchdowns. Also 3 rec., 23 yards.
Game Time: 12:00 P.M. ET
Site: Rutgers Stadium, Piscataway, N.J.
Weather: 60 degrees. Rain on and off at 60% chance.
That's it for this week. Go RU!
Friday, October 24, 2008
Game Eight Preview: Rutgers @ Pittsburgh
Tyler
Scarlet Surge
Date Posted: 10/24/08
After getting a much needed win last week, the Scarlet Knights of Rutgers find themselves on the brink of yet another game that could be a "season changer," for not only Rutgers but for Pittsburgh.
Rutgers, who will come into the game at 2-5 will face off against the Pittsburgh Panthers, 6-1, who they've beaten three straight seasons in a row.
But this a different Rutgers team, and a different Pittsburgh team. Pittsburgh comes back with highly touted halfback LeSean McCoy, who many, including myself, consider him the best overall halfback in the country. His speed, elusiveness, power, and ability to catch the ball out of the backfield makes him the best in my opinion. Rutgers did a great job of shutting him down last year in Piscataway - but that was different. Rutgers not only had no threat of a passing game coming from Pittsburgh, but the game was at home, which helps greatly in the ability to hold down an opponents best offensive weapon.
This game is going to come down to defense, a Rutgers defense that I have a great deal of confidence this week in. The linebackers have played very well the past three weeks, and Ryan D'Imperio, a linebacker, has probably been the most outstanding player the past three weeks on the entire team, not just the defense.
Offensively for Rutgers, they will need to find a running game. If they are unable to find a running game for the third straight week in a row, it will be a long afternoon in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Rutgers had just 75 yards on 25 carries from halfback Kordell Young last week. No signs of Jourdan Brooks, Mason Robinson, or Joe Martinek for a few games now...which to me has been just mind boggling.
We now move onto my:
Prediciton
Rutgers 14
Pittsburgh 20
Game Ball: Joe Lefeged. Lefeged, a strong safety, will be up in the back this week making plays for the Knights, but it just won't be enough as Rutgers loses a tight one against the best team in the Big East. Predicted stats for Lefeged: 11 tackles, 2 TFL, 1 FF.
Game Time: 3:30 PM E.T.
Site: Heinz Field, Pittsburgh, PA.
Weather: Rain on and off. At times heavy. Temperatures near 55 degrees.
That's all I've got for this week. Thanks for reading, and Go Knights!
Scarlet Surge
Date Posted: 10/24/08
After getting a much needed win last week, the Scarlet Knights of Rutgers find themselves on the brink of yet another game that could be a "season changer," for not only Rutgers but for Pittsburgh.
Rutgers, who will come into the game at 2-5 will face off against the Pittsburgh Panthers, 6-1, who they've beaten three straight seasons in a row.
But this a different Rutgers team, and a different Pittsburgh team. Pittsburgh comes back with highly touted halfback LeSean McCoy, who many, including myself, consider him the best overall halfback in the country. His speed, elusiveness, power, and ability to catch the ball out of the backfield makes him the best in my opinion. Rutgers did a great job of shutting him down last year in Piscataway - but that was different. Rutgers not only had no threat of a passing game coming from Pittsburgh, but the game was at home, which helps greatly in the ability to hold down an opponents best offensive weapon.
This game is going to come down to defense, a Rutgers defense that I have a great deal of confidence this week in. The linebackers have played very well the past three weeks, and Ryan D'Imperio, a linebacker, has probably been the most outstanding player the past three weeks on the entire team, not just the defense.
Offensively for Rutgers, they will need to find a running game. If they are unable to find a running game for the third straight week in a row, it will be a long afternoon in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Rutgers had just 75 yards on 25 carries from halfback Kordell Young last week. No signs of Jourdan Brooks, Mason Robinson, or Joe Martinek for a few games now...which to me has been just mind boggling.
We now move onto my:
Prediciton
Rutgers 14
Pittsburgh 20
Game Ball: Joe Lefeged. Lefeged, a strong safety, will be up in the back this week making plays for the Knights, but it just won't be enough as Rutgers loses a tight one against the best team in the Big East. Predicted stats for Lefeged: 11 tackles, 2 TFL, 1 FF.
Game Time: 3:30 PM E.T.
Site: Heinz Field, Pittsburgh, PA.
Weather: Rain on and off. At times heavy. Temperatures near 55 degrees.
That's all I've got for this week. Thanks for reading, and Go Knights!
Saturday, October 18, 2008
The Win We Needed!
Finally we got a win we needed. The offense wasn't too good all day, but in the end it was enough. Teel played a little bit better than the past two weeks, and Natale was impressive in limited action. The defense, for the most part, was really good, minus a drive or two. Rutgers did luck out that two field goals hit the upright's.
I still feel Natale needs to play a bit more though. Not bench Teel outright, but just for a few series per game. Why? Well, A. We need to see if Natale can actually perform at a higher level than Teel. And B. We need to give Natale some experience for next season, as he will probably be our starting Quarterback.
Defensively the team was pretty impressive. The tackling was pretty bad in the first quarter, but we stayed tough when we needed to. The second half the tackling was better, but the coverage got worse.
I thought the biggest key in this game for Rutgers was the field position battle. If Rutgers didn't win that, they probably lose. They had very good field position all day, while UCONN had horrible field position, yet we still almost lost. That pretty much shows how bad our offense was.
Special Teams overall was excellent. Better punt returning, kick off returns, kickoff coverage, punting, and punting coverage.
Overall, very happy with the way the team played. For sure we took a step in the right direction. Lets hope we can get an upset next Saturday versus Pittsburgh. Check back later in the week for a preview of the game.
Go RU!
I still feel Natale needs to play a bit more though. Not bench Teel outright, but just for a few series per game. Why? Well, A. We need to see if Natale can actually perform at a higher level than Teel. And B. We need to give Natale some experience for next season, as he will probably be our starting Quarterback.
Defensively the team was pretty impressive. The tackling was pretty bad in the first quarter, but we stayed tough when we needed to. The second half the tackling was better, but the coverage got worse.
I thought the biggest key in this game for Rutgers was the field position battle. If Rutgers didn't win that, they probably lose. They had very good field position all day, while UCONN had horrible field position, yet we still almost lost. That pretty much shows how bad our offense was.
Special Teams overall was excellent. Better punt returning, kick off returns, kickoff coverage, punting, and punting coverage.
Overall, very happy with the way the team played. For sure we took a step in the right direction. Lets hope we can get an upset next Saturday versus Pittsburgh. Check back later in the week for a preview of the game.
Go RU!
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Game Seven Preview: UCONN @ Rutgers
Tyler
Scarlet Surge
Date Posted: 10/16/08
Another game on the banks of the Ole' Raritan. It should be another good one in Piscataway Saturday as Rutgers faces off against the 5-1 University of Connecticut Huskies.
At 1-5, what else is there to say? You have a struggling quarterback, an entire struggling offense for that matter, and a special teams that has not provided a spark in who knows how many games. Something has to change...right?
Well, I hope so. The Knights have another chance this weekend versus a very good UCONN team. UCONN comes in having beaten 5 rather weak opponents. It's tough to say how good they are. Rutgers lost to UNC, at home, 44-12. UCONN lost, at UNC, 38-12. So to say one is leaps and bounds better than Rutgers is crazy in my opinion.
But UCONN is certainly a better football team, but I expect Rutgers to fight and claw to the end once again. In the past three road games, Rutgers has lost by a total of 12 points. They are just a LITTLE bit off each week from scratching out a victory. Last weeks fall to Cincy was just another example of them "Not being good enough." I think this week will be another case of that.
Another thing is that RU will have trouble defending UCONN halfback Donald Brown. Brown is one of the best halfback's in the country, leading the nation in rushing yardage. He's tore Rutgers up in the past as well, so this matchup should be interesting. This is the second straight week Rutgers will not be facing the teams primary quarterback. Chazz Anderson of Cincinnati was number 3 on the depth chart, and Zach Frazer is the backup to Tyler Lorenzen who got hurt several weeks ago versus Louisville.
Overall, I think Rutgers ONCE AGAIN keeps it close, but loses...My last week prediction was somewhat close. I had RU losing by 8 points, but I had the game ball going to Timmy Brown and I said Rutgers would hang close, but eventually lose...so this week...
Prediciton:
UCONN 25
Rutgers 16
Game Ball: Pete Tverdov. He'll do a good job in stuffing the run. He'll finish with 9 tackles, 3 TFL, and 1 sack. He'll help keep the running game in check, as Donald Brown will rush for 121 yards on 28 carries, and a touchdown.
Game Time: 12:00 PM E.T.
Site: Rutgers Stadium, Piscataway, NJ.
Weather: Sunny with a few clouds mixed in. 60 degrees.
Scarlet Surge
Date Posted: 10/16/08
Another game on the banks of the Ole' Raritan. It should be another good one in Piscataway Saturday as Rutgers faces off against the 5-1 University of Connecticut Huskies.
At 1-5, what else is there to say? You have a struggling quarterback, an entire struggling offense for that matter, and a special teams that has not provided a spark in who knows how many games. Something has to change...right?
Well, I hope so. The Knights have another chance this weekend versus a very good UCONN team. UCONN comes in having beaten 5 rather weak opponents. It's tough to say how good they are. Rutgers lost to UNC, at home, 44-12. UCONN lost, at UNC, 38-12. So to say one is leaps and bounds better than Rutgers is crazy in my opinion.
But UCONN is certainly a better football team, but I expect Rutgers to fight and claw to the end once again. In the past three road games, Rutgers has lost by a total of 12 points. They are just a LITTLE bit off each week from scratching out a victory. Last weeks fall to Cincy was just another example of them "Not being good enough." I think this week will be another case of that.
Another thing is that RU will have trouble defending UCONN halfback Donald Brown. Brown is one of the best halfback's in the country, leading the nation in rushing yardage. He's tore Rutgers up in the past as well, so this matchup should be interesting. This is the second straight week Rutgers will not be facing the teams primary quarterback. Chazz Anderson of Cincinnati was number 3 on the depth chart, and Zach Frazer is the backup to Tyler Lorenzen who got hurt several weeks ago versus Louisville.
Overall, I think Rutgers ONCE AGAIN keeps it close, but loses...My last week prediction was somewhat close. I had RU losing by 8 points, but I had the game ball going to Timmy Brown and I said Rutgers would hang close, but eventually lose...so this week...
Prediciton:
UCONN 25
Rutgers 16
Game Ball: Pete Tverdov. He'll do a good job in stuffing the run. He'll finish with 9 tackles, 3 TFL, and 1 sack. He'll help keep the running game in check, as Donald Brown will rush for 121 yards on 28 carries, and a touchdown.
Game Time: 12:00 PM E.T.
Site: Rutgers Stadium, Piscataway, NJ.
Weather: Sunny with a few clouds mixed in. 60 degrees.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Not. Good. Enough.
Tyler
Scarlet Surge
Date Posted: 10/12/08
This team is just not good enough, and it's obvious at this point. Underwood had several key drops. Britt dropped a pass or two, most notably on 4th and 1, which sealed the game for UC...
It gets frustrating, but it is what it is, Rutgers is just not very good this year. The offensive line got manhandled most of the game, and the only thing that kept us in this ball game was terrible personal foul penalties by Cincinnati.
Next up for RU is UCONN on Saturday, October 18th and 12 PM ET. That may be Mike Teel's final start in a Rutgers uniform, and at this point, I can say...rightfully so.
Hopefully we can get a this upcoming weekend. Look back late in the week for a preview!
Scarlet Surge
Date Posted: 10/12/08
This team is just not good enough, and it's obvious at this point. Underwood had several key drops. Britt dropped a pass or two, most notably on 4th and 1, which sealed the game for UC...
It gets frustrating, but it is what it is, Rutgers is just not very good this year. The offensive line got manhandled most of the game, and the only thing that kept us in this ball game was terrible personal foul penalties by Cincinnati.
Next up for RU is UCONN on Saturday, October 18th and 12 PM ET. That may be Mike Teel's final start in a Rutgers uniform, and at this point, I can say...rightfully so.
Hopefully we can get a this upcoming weekend. Look back late in the week for a preview!
Friday, October 10, 2008
Game Six Preview: Rutgers @ Cincinnati
Tyler
Scarlet Surge
Date posted: 10/10/08
If I told you Rutgers would end be 1-4 heading into the game versus Cincinnati on October 11th, you'd laugh at me.
Laugh no more. It's real.
Sadly, Rutgers heads into the game 1-4, and Cincinnati 4-1. Cincinnati's only loss came at the hands of the Sooners, who happen to be number 1 in the country.
The Knights will have a tough task ahead of them, that is for sure. However, there is reason to hope. Mike Teel played better, not good, better against WVU and we almost squeaked out a victory down in Morgantown. Another reason to believe is because Cincy is down to their 3rd string QB, Chazz Anderson, who is a redshirt freshman...if that doesn't give you reason to believe, nothing will at this point.
Rutgers has lost to the Bearcats twice in as many years. The past few seasons Cincinnati has been very big up front, and VERY fast on the corners (WR, CB). D'Angelo Smith and Mike Mickens are the corners for UC. They are very skilled corners, loaded with experience. They know they are up against one of the best WR tandems in the country, and they aren't the type to back down.
RU needs to come out and be able to run the ball, if they can not, this game will be over...and quick. Jourdan Brooks, Robinson, and Martinek need to pound the ball early and often for Teel to have any success in the short passing game, or even deep.
Once again, this is a game that could jumpstart Rutgers dull season. A win over Cincinnati could bring some momentum into the game versus UCONN next week at home.
My prediction:
Rutgers 19
Cincinnati 27
Game Ball:Tim Brown. He'll have a big game, but Rutgers hangs close for a while but eventually stumbles.
Game Time: 12:00 P.M. ET
Site: University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH
Weather: 75 degrees. Sunny.
Hopefully my prediction is wrong. Enjoy the game. Go Knights!
Scarlet Surge
Date posted: 10/10/08
If I told you Rutgers would end be 1-4 heading into the game versus Cincinnati on October 11th, you'd laugh at me.
Laugh no more. It's real.
Sadly, Rutgers heads into the game 1-4, and Cincinnati 4-1. Cincinnati's only loss came at the hands of the Sooners, who happen to be number 1 in the country.
The Knights will have a tough task ahead of them, that is for sure. However, there is reason to hope. Mike Teel played better, not good, better against WVU and we almost squeaked out a victory down in Morgantown. Another reason to believe is because Cincy is down to their 3rd string QB, Chazz Anderson, who is a redshirt freshman...if that doesn't give you reason to believe, nothing will at this point.
Rutgers has lost to the Bearcats twice in as many years. The past few seasons Cincinnati has been very big up front, and VERY fast on the corners (WR, CB). D'Angelo Smith and Mike Mickens are the corners for UC. They are very skilled corners, loaded with experience. They know they are up against one of the best WR tandems in the country, and they aren't the type to back down.
RU needs to come out and be able to run the ball, if they can not, this game will be over...and quick. Jourdan Brooks, Robinson, and Martinek need to pound the ball early and often for Teel to have any success in the short passing game, or even deep.
Once again, this is a game that could jumpstart Rutgers dull season. A win over Cincinnati could bring some momentum into the game versus UCONN next week at home.
My prediction:
Rutgers 19
Cincinnati 27
Game Ball:Tim Brown. He'll have a big game, but Rutgers hangs close for a while but eventually stumbles.
Game Time: 12:00 P.M. ET
Site: University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH
Weather: 75 degrees. Sunny.
Hopefully my prediction is wrong. Enjoy the game. Go Knights!
Monday, October 6, 2008
RU Falls Short in Morgantown
Tyler
Scarlet Surge
Date Posted: 10/6/08
The events in Morgantown were unfortunate. We had many opportunities to win the game, and ultimately came up short.
Rutgers got a gift from WVU coach Bill Stewart when he went for it on 4th and inches from RU's 45 yard line. George Johnson and Devin McCourty swarmed Jarrett Brown for a 10 yard loss. All Rutgers had to do was go 45 yards in 2 minutes with one timeout, and they would send this baby to overtime.
That's all they had to do.
Rutgers could not even manage a 1st down, going 4 and out, and the ball game was over. Dropping to 0-16 all time at West Virginia.
The predictable play calling and predictable passes from Mike Teel must stop now for Rutgers to win games this year (or any this year for that matter). Mike Teel consistently locks on to one WR and does NOT scan the field. He did not have a terrible game by any means - he threw a few good deep passes, one that was dropped by Britt early in the game, which would have been a touchdown, and a few other dropped passes from Underwood, Robinson, and Brown.
However, there were passes that made you say "What was he thinking?"...Several times he tried to go down field to Britt into double coverage, and threw a ball that wasn't even remotely close to giving his WR a chance to make a play. Other time's he was just fractions off, throwing it way too hard to a short reciever across the middle, or too far from the outreached hands of Mason Robinson.
We will see what happens down the road with this team - I will call it now: This team WILL beat Cincinnati AND Connecticut. No one will believe me now, but they will.
There is too much talent on this team for them to be this bad.
But for this team to win the next few games things need to change. And I believe they will.
Each week Teel and the rest of the offense are making strides. The play calling was not good in Morgantown, but it's certainly getting BETTER on a consistent basis.
This is an interesting team to watch and write for, as I seriously have no idea how the rest of the season will play out...my guess is pretty much as good as the next.
We can only hope.
Go RU.
Scarlet Surge
Date Posted: 10/6/08
The events in Morgantown were unfortunate. We had many opportunities to win the game, and ultimately came up short.
Rutgers got a gift from WVU coach Bill Stewart when he went for it on 4th and inches from RU's 45 yard line. George Johnson and Devin McCourty swarmed Jarrett Brown for a 10 yard loss. All Rutgers had to do was go 45 yards in 2 minutes with one timeout, and they would send this baby to overtime.
That's all they had to do.
Rutgers could not even manage a 1st down, going 4 and out, and the ball game was over. Dropping to 0-16 all time at West Virginia.
The predictable play calling and predictable passes from Mike Teel must stop now for Rutgers to win games this year (or any this year for that matter). Mike Teel consistently locks on to one WR and does NOT scan the field. He did not have a terrible game by any means - he threw a few good deep passes, one that was dropped by Britt early in the game, which would have been a touchdown, and a few other dropped passes from Underwood, Robinson, and Brown.
However, there were passes that made you say "What was he thinking?"...Several times he tried to go down field to Britt into double coverage, and threw a ball that wasn't even remotely close to giving his WR a chance to make a play. Other time's he was just fractions off, throwing it way too hard to a short reciever across the middle, or too far from the outreached hands of Mason Robinson.
We will see what happens down the road with this team - I will call it now: This team WILL beat Cincinnati AND Connecticut. No one will believe me now, but they will.
There is too much talent on this team for them to be this bad.
But for this team to win the next few games things need to change. And I believe they will.
Each week Teel and the rest of the offense are making strides. The play calling was not good in Morgantown, but it's certainly getting BETTER on a consistent basis.
This is an interesting team to watch and write for, as I seriously have no idea how the rest of the season will play out...my guess is pretty much as good as the next.
We can only hope.
Go RU.
Friday, October 3, 2008
Game Five Preview: Rutgers @ West Virginia
Tyler
Scarlet Surge
Date Posted: 10/3/08
Down to Morgantown we go. West Virginia and Rutgers, baby. This is what we live for. I hate WVU more than any other team in the Big East. Their fans can get obnoxious, although they are very passionate, which I respect, but they can be extremely obnoxious fans as a whole.
I think Rutgers has a great chance this weekend. I think they are going to come ready to play, or they are going to get their clock cleaned. It's going to be a RU victory by a small margin, or an easy blow-out for the Mountaineers. Amongst other things, time of possession is going to play a major role in deciding the outcome of this game. How about this stat? Rutgers lost the T.O.P. battle 31:17 to 28:43 last season. You can not lose the time of poessession battle and beat WVU - it just doesn't happen.
RU had plenty of opportunities to score key touchdowns last year against WVU. From their own 30 yard line to the opponents 30 yard line, they were spot on - but as we've seen many times, in the red zone, we failed to seize opportunities. You can't do that against WVU. They are simply to well coached and too talented to let major chances slip thru your hands.
Our WR and QB play will be huge this week. I expect a huge game from Kenny Britt or Tiquan Underwood. Britt has had a solid year this year, but nothing spectactular. And he didn't even play last week because he was suspended.
Tiquan on the other hand has been a disappointment. I think teams are really keying on him. He's so talented teams are double covering him, and always looking to see where #7 is on the field.
But Rutgers definately has a great chance this week because of the success they had moving the ball last year on the Mountaineers. They didn't cash in on any opportunites, as a matter of fact, they dropped about 5 very very catchable passes, at least 3 of them being for touchdowns...so I think it's safe to say RU stands a chance - whether they'll actually show up and be ready tomorrow, that's another story.
The running attack has looked very solid the past two weeks, but I'm still not sold on it. I wouldn't say Navy is the toughest defense against the run, and Morgan State, was, well...Morgan State. So I'm very interested in seeing whether or not the run game can actually produce against a competent WVU defense.
Defensively, it'll be tough to stop them, no doubt about it. Obviously, you have to like what you saw last week against Morgan State. They gave up no points, which, in at any level, versus any team, that's quite an accomplishment. We will need this same type of level against WVU to compete. The linebackers are going to play a huge role in this game. If they can hold the run game for WVU in check, the Scarlet Knights will have a great chance. RU gave up 254 rushing yards in Piscataway in the '07 matchup against West Va. It can't happen again.
My prediction:
Rutgers 27
West Virginia 23
Game Ball: Damaso Munoz. Yes, I said it. I think Munoz is going to get a good amount of playing time because he has good speed and we will need to rotate our front seven quite often against this rushing attack. I also liked what I saw from him last week as well. I think Munoz finished with 11 tkls, 3 tfl, 1 ff. Big game out of Damaso!
Game Time: 12:00 PM ET
Site: West Virginia University Morgantown, WV
Weather: Partly Cloudy, 60 degrees.
Enjoy the game. Go RU!
Scarlet Surge
Date Posted: 10/3/08
Down to Morgantown we go. West Virginia and Rutgers, baby. This is what we live for. I hate WVU more than any other team in the Big East. Their fans can get obnoxious, although they are very passionate, which I respect, but they can be extremely obnoxious fans as a whole.
I think Rutgers has a great chance this weekend. I think they are going to come ready to play, or they are going to get their clock cleaned. It's going to be a RU victory by a small margin, or an easy blow-out for the Mountaineers. Amongst other things, time of possession is going to play a major role in deciding the outcome of this game. How about this stat? Rutgers lost the T.O.P. battle 31:17 to 28:43 last season. You can not lose the time of poessession battle and beat WVU - it just doesn't happen.
RU had plenty of opportunities to score key touchdowns last year against WVU. From their own 30 yard line to the opponents 30 yard line, they were spot on - but as we've seen many times, in the red zone, we failed to seize opportunities. You can't do that against WVU. They are simply to well coached and too talented to let major chances slip thru your hands.
Our WR and QB play will be huge this week. I expect a huge game from Kenny Britt or Tiquan Underwood. Britt has had a solid year this year, but nothing spectactular. And he didn't even play last week because he was suspended.
Tiquan on the other hand has been a disappointment. I think teams are really keying on him. He's so talented teams are double covering him, and always looking to see where #7 is on the field.
But Rutgers definately has a great chance this week because of the success they had moving the ball last year on the Mountaineers. They didn't cash in on any opportunites, as a matter of fact, they dropped about 5 very very catchable passes, at least 3 of them being for touchdowns...so I think it's safe to say RU stands a chance - whether they'll actually show up and be ready tomorrow, that's another story.
The running attack has looked very solid the past two weeks, but I'm still not sold on it. I wouldn't say Navy is the toughest defense against the run, and Morgan State, was, well...Morgan State. So I'm very interested in seeing whether or not the run game can actually produce against a competent WVU defense.
Defensively, it'll be tough to stop them, no doubt about it. Obviously, you have to like what you saw last week against Morgan State. They gave up no points, which, in at any level, versus any team, that's quite an accomplishment. We will need this same type of level against WVU to compete. The linebackers are going to play a huge role in this game. If they can hold the run game for WVU in check, the Scarlet Knights will have a great chance. RU gave up 254 rushing yards in Piscataway in the '07 matchup against West Va. It can't happen again.
My prediction:
Rutgers 27
West Virginia 23
Game Ball: Damaso Munoz. Yes, I said it. I think Munoz is going to get a good amount of playing time because he has good speed and we will need to rotate our front seven quite often against this rushing attack. I also liked what I saw from him last week as well. I think Munoz finished with 11 tkls, 3 tfl, 1 ff. Big game out of Damaso!
Game Time: 12:00 PM ET
Site: West Virginia University Morgantown, WV
Weather: Partly Cloudy, 60 degrees.
Enjoy the game. Go RU!
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Finally!
Finally a win, 38-0 over Morgan St. Nice to see a victory from the Scarlet Knights...it's been too long. Teel had a solid game, and Rutgers defense played marvelous, shutting out Morgan State, and forcing four turnovers - their first four of the season. It was good to see Teel play well again, but the true test will come next week in Morgantown as RU will battle WVU. Kenny Britt and Anthony Davis, who were suspended for the game versus Morgan State for violation of team rules, WILL PLAY against WVU on Saturday Oct. 4th. Chris Paul-Etienne saw the most game action of his career, and showed some potential, juking out defenders on several occassions and displaying a very strong arm. He only had 3 pass attempts, but I think he's a guy that could possibly be a "sleeper" and eventually a starter for the Knights if not later this year, or maybe even next year. That'll do it for this week - RU wins easy...38-0!
I think Rutgers has a chance next week, I really do. I'll talk more extensively in my next write-up which will be later next week.
I think Rutgers has a chance next week, I really do. I'll talk more extensively in my next write-up which will be later next week.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Game Four Preview: Morgan State @ Rutgers
Tyler
Scarlet Surge
Date Posted: 9/25/08
Rutgers vs. Morgan State. It's good to be back home. Following a tough loss to Navy, this is pretty much a must win at this point. If you lose, you fall to 0-4, and you just got beat by a D-1AA team. No offense to Morgan State, but to lose to a D-1AA team in your own building - that's the ultimate low.
As a matter of fact, Morgan State is a pretty darn good team. On the defensive line, they average 298 lbs. On the offensive line, they average 310 lbs. They have NUMEROUS D-1A transfers. This game WON'T be a blow out. I say Rutgers by two touchdowns, but not a 40 point win or anything. This is an athletic, respectable squad with a fast paced, athletic defense.
Want to know more about Morgan State? Well, they have 9 interceptions on the season...that's better than our...0! They have good ball hawking corners combined with a decent pass rush - this team could definitely hold us in check.
But, it's only a matter of time before Rutgers bursts out of this slump. And it starts this week. Mike Teel is going to get his act together this week. He will finally start throwing the ball downfield again - we have to, there is no other choice. You can't keep shielding him from opponents secondaries afraid of interceptions. Look - if your not going to throw the ball down the field against Morgan State, the Teel SHOULD NOT be your starting QB. Your wasting his time, the team's time, and the fan's time. It's due for a change if your going to continue to shelter him like a mom to a 12 year old during a rated "R" movie.
*Just to show you how athletic Morgan State is, check out this catch:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8V-GKOkiEAA
My prediction:
Rutgers 33
Morgan State 14
Game Ball: Mike Teel - He'll step up big this week. 17/30, 272 yards, 2 TD's, and surprisingly 0 interceptions.
Game Time: 3:30 PM ET.
Site: Rutgers Stadium. Piscataway, NJ.
Weather: Rain all day.
*Breaking News: Jabu Lovelace out for season, broken leg sustained during Thursday's practice. Chris-Paul Etienne.
Scarlet Surge
Date Posted: 9/25/08
Rutgers vs. Morgan State. It's good to be back home. Following a tough loss to Navy, this is pretty much a must win at this point. If you lose, you fall to 0-4, and you just got beat by a D-1AA team. No offense to Morgan State, but to lose to a D-1AA team in your own building - that's the ultimate low.
As a matter of fact, Morgan State is a pretty darn good team. On the defensive line, they average 298 lbs. On the offensive line, they average 310 lbs. They have NUMEROUS D-1A transfers. This game WON'T be a blow out. I say Rutgers by two touchdowns, but not a 40 point win or anything. This is an athletic, respectable squad with a fast paced, athletic defense.
Want to know more about Morgan State? Well, they have 9 interceptions on the season...that's better than our...0! They have good ball hawking corners combined with a decent pass rush - this team could definitely hold us in check.
But, it's only a matter of time before Rutgers bursts out of this slump. And it starts this week. Mike Teel is going to get his act together this week. He will finally start throwing the ball downfield again - we have to, there is no other choice. You can't keep shielding him from opponents secondaries afraid of interceptions. Look - if your not going to throw the ball down the field against Morgan State, the Teel SHOULD NOT be your starting QB. Your wasting his time, the team's time, and the fan's time. It's due for a change if your going to continue to shelter him like a mom to a 12 year old during a rated "R" movie.
*Just to show you how athletic Morgan State is, check out this catch:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8V-GKOkiEAA
My prediction:
Rutgers 33
Morgan State 14
Game Ball: Mike Teel - He'll step up big this week. 17/30, 272 yards, 2 TD's, and surprisingly 0 interceptions.
Game Time: 3:30 PM ET.
Site: Rutgers Stadium. Piscataway, NJ.
Weather: Rain all day.
*Breaking News: Jabu Lovelace out for season, broken leg sustained during Thursday's practice. Chris-Paul Etienne.
Saturday, September 20, 2008
Wow...
Well. I think it's finally time to bench Mike Teel. We rushed for about 200 yards today as a team, and he STILL couldn't get anything going in the passing game. You can also tell the coaches are hesistent to really call any passing plays unless we ARE FORCED to pass. The time is now to build the future, not watch this team play in the past.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Game Three Preview: Rutgers @ Navy
Tyler
Scarlet Surge
Date Posted: 9/18/08
This is a huge game for the Scarlet Knights. Coming off a dismal 44-12 loss to UNC, they need to jumpstart their season after starting 0-2. UNC could have a very good year, but as of right now, it needs to be viewed as a pretty bad loss for a team who is trying to build a dynasty in Piscataway.
We will see what happens, but I think Rutgers escapes with a victory here. Now, I don't think they'll trounce Navy by any means, but I have a feeling they'll win convincingly. Maybe this is what this football team needs? Some adversity. Maybe it needs to be viewed as the "underdog" or the "team that can't accomplish anything."
Rutgers 25 Navy 17. The Rutgers defense and offense finally come into their own, and they mix in a big play out of the special teams. Teel has a big game, and Courtney Greene finishes the game with 15 tackles, 1 sack, and 1 FF. Hey, it's just predictions.
Lets hope RU can get this victory! R...U...R...U!
On a side note, the game being on CBS CSN is a disappointment. I do indeed get that channel, but I know many Rutgers fans do not. Not only that, but I do not believe it is in High Definition. Pretty unfortunate. But, maybe in the local area they will put it on regular CBS, channel 2.
*I will also be doing live-blogging. That means I will be sharing my thoughts DURING THE GAME! Every 30 minutes or so I'll chime in with a few comments during the game, so basically if you are near a PC during the game, check it out here. Don't forget to leave comments too, haha.
Scarlet Surge
Date Posted: 9/18/08
This is a huge game for the Scarlet Knights. Coming off a dismal 44-12 loss to UNC, they need to jumpstart their season after starting 0-2. UNC could have a very good year, but as of right now, it needs to be viewed as a pretty bad loss for a team who is trying to build a dynasty in Piscataway.
We will see what happens, but I think Rutgers escapes with a victory here. Now, I don't think they'll trounce Navy by any means, but I have a feeling they'll win convincingly. Maybe this is what this football team needs? Some adversity. Maybe it needs to be viewed as the "underdog" or the "team that can't accomplish anything."
Rutgers 25 Navy 17. The Rutgers defense and offense finally come into their own, and they mix in a big play out of the special teams. Teel has a big game, and Courtney Greene finishes the game with 15 tackles, 1 sack, and 1 FF. Hey, it's just predictions.
Lets hope RU can get this victory! R...U...R...U!
On a side note, the game being on CBS CSN is a disappointment. I do indeed get that channel, but I know many Rutgers fans do not. Not only that, but I do not believe it is in High Definition. Pretty unfortunate. But, maybe in the local area they will put it on regular CBS, channel 2.
*I will also be doing live-blogging. That means I will be sharing my thoughts DURING THE GAME! Every 30 minutes or so I'll chime in with a few comments during the game, so basically if you are near a PC during the game, check it out here. Don't forget to leave comments too, haha.
Friday, September 12, 2008
Speechless...
I don't even think I can write a game wrap-up for this one. I consider myself a pretty loyal fan but even I left after the 3rd quarter.
The only cool part about the game was seeing Brandon Jacobs in person...what a beast!
I'll post more later on when a RU-Navy game preview comes...peace!
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Game Two Preview: UNC @ Rutgers
Tyler
Scarlet Surge
Date Posted: 9/9/08
Rutgers versus UNC. Thank god this isn’t basketball. Alright, I’m kidding. This should be a good game. Two teams, filled with pretty solid talent, coming off pretty “head-scratching” starts to the 2008 campaign.
Rutgers had plenty of opportunities to beat Fresno State, but that’s now in the past. They need to take it one game at a time. The Big East is totally wide open this season. With WVU losing to ECU Saturday, it left plenty of room, and time, to make up their disappointing loss to the Bulldogs on Labor Day.
The Tar Heels escape with a 35-27 victory versus McNeese State. This was quite surprising as I did not think UNC would have any trouble in their first game, but they made it interesting to say the least. I still think they are a dangerous team when it clicks. UNC’s quarterback, T.J. Yates, is a solid one. He struggled last season as a freshman but in his 2nd season he’s more experienced and has the ability to burn the defense if Rutgers does not give him respect.
Rutgers should have no problem racking up yards against a weak UNC defense. They surrendered 391 total yards to McNeese State. Rutgers has double the offense of McNeese State, so UNC better step their game up if they think they will come into Piscataway and survive on Thursday.
UNC’s experience is what will cost them the game ultimately. They come in with 44 freshmen, 41 sophomores, 22 juniors, and 13 seniors. I think talent wise they stack up pretty decently against Rutgers. I don’t think this will be a game Rutgers blows them out, or gets blown out. I think it’ll be tight most of the game, but “young” mistakes such as penalties or turnovers will ultimately cost the Tar Heels in the end.
Prediction: RU 22 UNC 17. Rutgers has been good on Thursday night. No way will I bet against them here.
Players to watch: Mike Teel. He should have a big game against a weak defense in UNC. I expect him to throw for around 300 yards with a touchdown or two.
Game Time: 7:45 Kickoff ET.
Where to watch: ESPN
*It is also going to be Sept. 11th. Obviously everyone remembers what happened on Sept. 11th, 2001, the unfortunate events. I think Rutgers will do a good job honoring those who lost their lives on that day.
Thanks for reading. Since I go to all the home games, for away games that I won't be attending, I will do live blogging. Almost like play-by-play about every 20 minutes or so with a new post on my current thoughts of a play call, a penalty called, etc. You can check that out during the games. Peace!
Scarlet Surge
Date Posted: 9/9/08
Rutgers versus UNC. Thank god this isn’t basketball. Alright, I’m kidding. This should be a good game. Two teams, filled with pretty solid talent, coming off pretty “head-scratching” starts to the 2008 campaign.
Rutgers had plenty of opportunities to beat Fresno State, but that’s now in the past. They need to take it one game at a time. The Big East is totally wide open this season. With WVU losing to ECU Saturday, it left plenty of room, and time, to make up their disappointing loss to the Bulldogs on Labor Day.
The Tar Heels escape with a 35-27 victory versus McNeese State. This was quite surprising as I did not think UNC would have any trouble in their first game, but they made it interesting to say the least. I still think they are a dangerous team when it clicks. UNC’s quarterback, T.J. Yates, is a solid one. He struggled last season as a freshman but in his 2nd season he’s more experienced and has the ability to burn the defense if Rutgers does not give him respect.
Rutgers should have no problem racking up yards against a weak UNC defense. They surrendered 391 total yards to McNeese State. Rutgers has double the offense of McNeese State, so UNC better step their game up if they think they will come into Piscataway and survive on Thursday.
UNC’s experience is what will cost them the game ultimately. They come in with 44 freshmen, 41 sophomores, 22 juniors, and 13 seniors. I think talent wise they stack up pretty decently against Rutgers. I don’t think this will be a game Rutgers blows them out, or gets blown out. I think it’ll be tight most of the game, but “young” mistakes such as penalties or turnovers will ultimately cost the Tar Heels in the end.
Prediction: RU 22 UNC 17. Rutgers has been good on Thursday night. No way will I bet against them here.
Players to watch: Mike Teel. He should have a big game against a weak defense in UNC. I expect him to throw for around 300 yards with a touchdown or two.
Game Time: 7:45 Kickoff ET.
Where to watch: ESPN
*It is also going to be Sept. 11th. Obviously everyone remembers what happened on Sept. 11th, 2001, the unfortunate events. I think Rutgers will do a good job honoring those who lost their lives on that day.
Thanks for reading. Since I go to all the home games, for away games that I won't be attending, I will do live blogging. Almost like play-by-play about every 20 minutes or so with a new post on my current thoughts of a play call, a penalty called, etc. You can check that out during the games. Peace!
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Game One: Fresno St. @ Rutgers
Tyler
Scarlet Surge
Date Posted: 9/3/08
Scarlet Surge
Date Posted: 9/3/08
Game one of the 2008 campaign for the Scarlet Knights of Rutgers wasn’t exactly what they had hoped for. A bitter 24-7 loss left 42,500 stunned in Piscataway on Labor day. Although it sounds like a blow out, the game was actually very close for most of the contest. A 0-0 score at half time was a disappointment for the Knights. They dominated the first half in all facets of the game, but were unable to put points on the scoreboard. The common theme for the first half, and entire game for that matter: missed opportunities. RU had a 204-106 yardage edge after the first two quarters, but were unable to translate any of that offense into points.
The kicking game seems to be a real weak spot on the 2008 Rutgers Scarlet Knights. They attempted two field goals in the first half; both were unsuccessful. San San Te, replacing the always reliable Jeremy Ito looked a little rough in his Scarlet and white debut. He missed two field goals; one that was no more than an extra point. But to be fair, the snap was botched, throwing him off his rhythm, but he still had an opportunity to knock it thru and failed.
Lately, I have noticed many Rutgers fans calling out offensive coordinator John McNulty’s play calling. He is not the reason for our offensive struggles! You can chalk this game up because of player’s mistakes. McNulty did a fine job calling the game and put the players in a chance to succeed, and they did not come through. To blame McNulty for over-thrown passes by Teel, or dropped passes from Britt, and Underwood is ludicrous.
Mike Teel contributed to these mistakes and miss opportunities. The Knights tried a trick-play early on, the flea flicker, but turned the ball over when Teel decided to throw into triple coverage. He needs to realize when to just throw the ball away. In my opinion, Teel is a very good quarterback, and I think he’ll rebound just fine from this, but at times he makes you scratch your head in his decisions.
Overall, I think the team played OK. They clearly didn’t play well, but I don’t think they played as badly as a 24-7 game sounds. Some things need to be tightened up before the next game versus University of North Carolina on Thursday, September 11th. I’ll have more that game early next week. But look back sometime later this week, I should put something else up before the UNC preview. Thanks for reading.
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