Big East Preview: Rutgers, Contender

Rutgers enters the post Ray Rice era in 2008. With a sold but somewhat disappointing 2007 in the rear view mirror the Scarlet Knights need to redefine themselves and find someone to fill the void left by Rice.

Why They'll Win

What they lack in running back star power, they make up for at the quarterback and receiver positions. Last year wasn't all about Ray Rice. In 2007, Rutgers became the first 1-A school to have a 3,000 yard passer, 2,000 rusher, and two 1,000 receivers. Despite a nagging thumb injury, Mike Teel managed to pass for over 3,000 yards and 20 touchdowns. Big numbers that were overshadowed by the year Rice had. On the outside, Kenny Britt and Tiquan Underwood both had over 60 receptions and combined to catch 15 touchdowns.

The defense lost Eric Foster, but they return eight starters that should be able to reproduce the success of the 2007 squad. It's not a big unit, but what they lack in size, they make up for in speed. Returning free safety Courtney Green, cornerbacks Devin and Jason McCourty all return to anchor a pass defense that was fifth in the nation.

Why They'll Lose

Ray Rice leaves a huge void at the running back position. Defenses were forced to key on the running game. This opened up the passing game and kept defenses guessing. With no proven replacement for Rice and an undersized offensive line, defenses will be able to play straight up and devote more attention to the passing game.

While Mike Teel had a breakout season statistically, he also cost the team with untimely interceptions in a couple games. Rutgers had a negative turnover margin last year and lost 12 fumbles. With new faces in the backfield, that trend could continure. The schedule doesn't favor Rutgers as they will have to play @ West Virginia, Cincinnati, Pittsburgh, and South Florida.

Offenses had to scheme for departed defensive lineman Eric Foster. He made everyone around him better. Without that dominating presense in the middle, offenses might be able to control the line of scrimmage and wear down the undersized defense. Rutgers also turns over the punting and kicking duties to underclassmen that will have to replace Jeremy Ito. So field position could be an issue.

How To Beat Them

Make the Scarlet Knights one dimensional on offense. Stuff the run on first down and force second and third and long situations. The passing game put up big numbers last year, but when they were asked to win the game, they usually came up short. Rutgers was 0-4 against teams that out rushed them in 2007.

Keep the Rutgers defense on the field. The defense is undersized and when you can convert 3rd downs and sustain drives they get worn out. They don't create more turnovers than they give up. Play field position, hold on to the ball and wait for them to make a mistake.

Prognosis

Greg Schiano has done a great job of recruiting off the recent success Rutgers has enjoyed, but that talent hasn't filtered it's way into the starting lineup just yet. His smash mouth philosophy doesn't mesh with the talent he has on the field this year. A winning season and a bowl game are still very likely for this team. Unfortunately for Mike Teel and the rest of the seniors, Rutgers might still be a year or two away.