Rutgers vs. Howard: What We Learned
By Matt Sugam
PISCATAWAY -Rutgers (2-0) defeated Howard (1-1) 26-0 in the Scarlet Knights home opener. Here’s what we learned from the game:
1. Rutgers’ offense takes time to get into a rhythm
They had a slow start against Tulane and looked sluggish at the start vs. Howard. Gary Nova started the game 1-of-5 for six yards and an interception, and the ground game couldn’t get much going either. Late in the first quarter Jawan Jamison ripped off a 64- yard run on third and 34, which was the spark that lit the fire under the Scarlet Knights’ offense.
2. Rutgers needs to cut back on the penalties
Kyle Flood said after the Tulane game that he wanted to clean up the penalties. Well, his team didn’t oblige. They had six penalties for 56 yards in the first quarter. They ended the game with 11 penalties for 92 yards, including several that nullified big plays.
3. The defense is as good as advertised
Ok, so it was only Howard. But they can’t pick who the opponent is. So they still deserve credit for a dominant outing. They were stifling, holding the Bisons to 149 yards on the day. That’s impressive no matter who you’re playing.
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