Rutgers Football Aims for Continued Success in 2023 Season
- Rutgers football team aims for more success after their first winning season since 2014.
- Fans have higher expectations for the team and are eager for achievements beyond just another bowl bid.
- The team is motivated to build off their recent success and make further strides in the upcoming season.
PISCATAWAY, N.J. (AP) — Rutgers University is gearing up for an optimistic football season following its first winning record since 2014. Under the leadership of head coach Greg Schiano, the Scarlet Knights are looking to build on last year's success, which culminated in a 7-6 finish and a victory over Miami in the Pinstripe Bowl. The team is set to feature a new transfer quarterback and an offense bolstered by the league's leading rusher from the previous season. As Schiano enters his fifth season in his second tenure at Rutgers, the team is focused on improving its performance in an expanded Big Ten Conference. The Scarlet Knights finished last season ranked in the top 20 nationally for overall defense, with eight of their eleven regular defensive players returning. However, the team faces a setback with linebacker Mohamed Toure, who led the team in sacks last season, suffering a torn ACL and being sidelined for the entire season. The expanded Big Ten schedule presents both challenges and opportunities for Rutgers. Notably, the Scarlet Knights will not face powerhouse teams such as Ohio State, Penn State, Michigan, and Iowa this season, which could provide a more favorable path to success. The conference matchups will include competitive teams like Washington, Wisconsin, Nebraska, and UCLA, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.