The Rutgers Scarlet Knights are looking for a big win after a tough loss against the Michigan Wolverines. Rutgers will be facing the Wagner Seahawks. Rutgers are currently 3-1 and need a win this weekend to bring back the momentum they had early on. These two teams last faced off in 2022, which worked well for Rutgers. Here is everything to expect in the matchup between the Scarlet Knights and the Seahawks.
What to Watch for
The play calling this week needs to improve after some poor choices last week. There needs to be better decision-making on the coaching end altogether. Rutgers should be able to put up points this game, but if for some reason it turns out closer than it should, the coaching needs to improve. Rutgers has done well on fourth-down plays, but they should not have done it last weekend against Michigan when they could have kicked a field goal. The fans have heavily voiced their opinions on that one, rightfully so. Hopefully, for the Scarlet Knights, it does not end up close, but after what happened last weekend, it does need to be better.
Rutgers QB Gavin Wimsatt (9) – Charles Rex Arbogast/AP Photo
Last weekend, there were some sparks in the passing game that is not always seen. As much as the heart of this offense is running the ball, perhaps they can do more with throwing the ball this week. The lone touchdown against Michigan was a simple pass, but it went for 69 yards. The team ended up completing 11 passes for 180 yards, according to ESPN. Not every pass was great, but some were, and if the team could get that going this weekend, it could open up the run game even more.
Scarlet Knights to Watch
Christian Dremel
Wide receiver Christian Dremel has been having his best season yet for the Scarlet Knights. He is a solid target and will continue to improve this season. In four games, Dremel has had ten receptions for 157 yards and two touchdowns, according to Sports Reference. Dremel was the one who had the touchdown reception against Michigan. If he could get something going again this weekend, Rutgers fans could have a fun game to watch.
Rutgers LB Tyreem Powell (22) – Ben Solomon/Rutgers Athletics
Tyreem Powell
Another player to watch this weekend is linebacker Tyreem Powell. The Scarlet Knights defense has a chance to do big things this weekend. Week three was the first game in which they did not have a turnover in 2023. In four games, Powell has had 37 combined tackles, 16 solo, and two tackles for loss, according to Sports Reference. He also has had one sack, one pass deflection, and one forced fumble. He has not yet caught an interception this year. Whether Powell forces the turnover or helps create it, he will be a player to watch this weekend.
Ja’shon Benjamin
Running back Ja’shon Benjamin did not play last weekend against Michigan, but he played in the three previous games. For a freshman, he has been doing a substantial job for the Scarlet Knights. In three games, Benjamin has had 29 carries for 102 yards, according to Sports Reference. He also has had one reception for 33 yards and one touchdown. His ability to catch should be utilized this week. If Rutgers plays with both the run and passing game, Benjamin will be a player to watch.
Rutgers Scarlet Knights – Dustin Statloff/Rutgers Athletics
Game Predictions
The Rutgers Scarlet Knights are favorites to win this weekend. Wagner is 2-2, and it is not looking great for them, especially with this being a Rutgers home game. The score prediction for this game is 35-7, with the Scarlet Knights taking the win. There is a chance that this could be a shutout if the team can do well keeping possession of the ball. The game will take place this Saturday, September 30th, at 3:30 p.m. at SHI Stadium.
