Rutgers University will take on their most formidable opponent this season when they face the Ohio State Buckeyes on Saturday, March 15, 2024. A victory in this matchup would secure a bowl invitation for the Scarlet Knights, but the odds are heavily stacked against them. The Buckeyes have maintained a perfect record against Rutgers, winning all 10 previous encounters, and are poised for a playoff run this year.
One of the primary concerns for Rutgers is Ohio State’s explosive offense, which averages an impressive 441.3 yards per game, ranking second in the Big Ten Conference. Quarterback Julian Sayin boasts an astonishing completion rate of 80.1%, consistently connecting with standout receiver Jeremiah Smith. At 6 feet 3 inches and 223 pounds, Smith is a significant threat who can change the course of a game if left unchecked. Head Coach Greg Schiano praised Smith’s talents, stating, “He is a fantastic talent. Big, strong, fast, detailed. Runs great routes, great catch radius.”
Despite Smith’s prowess, there are doubts about his availability. He was seen limping while returning to the bench during halftime of Ohio State’s last game against UCLA, raising questions about his fitness for the upcoming match. Nevertheless, the challenges for Rutgers extend beyond just containing Smith.
The Scarlet Knights’ secondary currently ranks last in the Big Ten for pass defense and will need to address the explosive plays that have plagued them throughout the season. Ohio State’s defense is formidable, allowing only 211.6 total yards and a mere 7.2 points per game, both of which are the best marks in the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS). Under the guidance of Coordinator Matt Patricia, in his first year with Head Coach Ryan Day, the Buckeyes have developed a unit with few, if any, exploitable weaknesses. They lead the nation in yards allowed, passing yards allowed at 128.7, and rushing yards allowed at 82.9.
With the Scarlet Knights averaging 29 points per game but ranking 106th nationally in scoring defense, quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis faces his toughest challenge yet. The execution and depth of Ohio State’s team present a daunting hurdle for Rutgers, which has struggled with consistency. Schiano emphasized that while both teams are talented, Ohio State demonstrates a level of execution that sets them apart.
Ohio State has achieved over 90 Big Ten victories since 2014, with very few losses. Their depth across all positions is remarkable, making it essential for Rutgers’ defense to play mistake-free football. Meanwhile, the offense must strive for near-perfect efficiency to compete effectively.
As Rutgers prepares for this critical game, they face a significant uphill battle against a powerhouse team. With key players like Smith and fellow receiver Tate being questionable after recent injuries, the Scarlet Knights will need to capitalize on any opportunity that arises. The outcome of this matchup could have lasting implications for both teams as they navigate the remainder of the season.
