Rutgers University achieved a vital victory against the University of Maryland with a score of 35-20 on Saturday, keeping its hopes for a bowl game alive. The Scarlet Knights showcased a formidable offensive performance, highlighted by quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis, who threw for four touchdowns. This win not only boosts the team’s morale but also sets the stage for an upcoming challenge against Penn State.
The game against Maryland was critical for Rutgers, as they entered needing a win to maintain their postseason aspirations. Antwan Raymond had a standout performance, rushing for a remarkable 240 yards, while wide receiver Ian Strong caught three touchdown passes. Despite some defensive lapses early on, the Scarlet Knights managed to limit Maryland to just a single field goal in the second half.
Looking ahead, Rutgers is set to face Penn State on November 22, 2025, in what could be a pivotal matchup for the program. The Nittany Lions, currently struggling with a record of 3-6 and on a six-game losing streak in the Big Ten, present a unique opportunity for Rutgers to claim a significant victory. The last time Rutgers defeated Penn State was in 1918, making this upcoming game a chance to rewrite the narrative of their longstanding rivalry.
Head coach Greg Schiano has emphasized the importance of this moment for his team. While he adheres to a “24-hour rule” for celebrating victories, the anticipation for the Penn State game is palpable among players and fans alike. Many supporters believe that a win against the Nittany Lions would not only secure bowl eligibility for a third consecutive season but also provide a sense of redemption after a challenging year.
The history between these two teams has been overwhelmingly in favor of Penn State, which has won 31 of the 32 meetings since their initial clash in 1918. In recent encounters, Penn State has outscored Rutgers 282-45, underscoring the uphill battle the Scarlet Knights have faced. Nevertheless, this season’s circumstances may offer a glimmer of hope as Penn State’s struggles continue.
The Scarlet Knights will benefit from a late-season bye week to recover key players before their challenging matchup against the top-ranked Ohio State University. Coach Schiano acknowledged the formidable nature of Ohio State, stating, “Man alive, are they good.” He recognizes that while this game is crucial, the showdown with Penn State is where Rutgers can truly make a statement.
As Rutgers prepares for what could be their best opportunity in years to defeat Penn State, the stakes have never been higher. The Scarlet Knights are focused on building momentum from their recent win and translating that into success as they approach the end of the season. With their bowl hopes reignited, the excitement surrounding this rivalry is palpable, and fans are eager to see how the team will perform in this critical stretch of the season.
