Rutgers Football Season Opens with a Win

Scarlet Knights Rout Howard 66-7

Kaliakmanis Impresses in First Start

PISCATAWAY, NJ - The Rutgers football team opened its 2023 season with a resounding 66-7 victory over Howard on Saturday afternoon at SHI Stadium.

The Scarlet Knights were led by sophomore quarterback Gavin Wimsatt, who made his first career start. Wimsatt completed 12 of 19 passes for 205 yards and three touchdowns. He also rushed for 56 yards and a touchdown.

Running back Kyle Monangai had a big day for Rutgers, rushing for 121 yards and two touchdowns on 15 carries. Wide receiver Aron Cruickshank had six catches for 105 yards and a touchdown.

The Rutgers defense was equally impressive, holding Howard to just 182 yards of total offense. The Scarlet Knights forced three turnovers, including two interceptions by cornerback Avery Young.

The win is a good start for Rutgers, which is looking to improve on its 5-8 record from last season. The Scarlet Knights will be back in action next Saturday when they host Wagner at SHI Stadium.

Here are some highlights from the game:

• Wimsatt threw a 25-yard touchdown pass to Cruickshank in the first quarter.
• Monangai scored on a 1-yard run in the second quarter.
• Wimsatt ran for a 1-yard touchdown in the third quarter.
• Monangai added a 62-yard touchdown run in the third quarter
• Young intercepted a pass and returned it 35 yards for a touchdown in the fourth quarter.

Overall, it was a great day for Rutgers football. The Scarlet Knights looked impressive on both sides of the ball and they should be confident heading into next week's game against Wagner.