Rutgers football managed to secure a narrow victory against Washington, winning 21-18 on Friday night at SHI Stadium. This marks Rutgers’ fourth consecutive win, establishing a 4-0 start to the season, the best since 2012.
The Huskies had an opportunity to equalize the game with just 35 seconds remaining, but kicker Grady Gross missed a long 55-yard field goal attempt as time expired.
Here’s a recap of the game’s key moments:
In the fourth quarter, with 1:40 remaining, Washington narrowed Rutgers’ lead with a 12-yard touchdown pass from Will Rogers to Denzel Boston, along with a successful two-point conversion. The score then stood at 21-18 in favor of Rutgers.
Earlier in the fourth quarter, at 10:57, Rutgers extended their lead when Sam Brown scored on a 37-yard run, increasing the score to 21-10.
In the third quarter, with 4:23 left, Washington closed the gap with a 51-yard touchdown pass from Will Rogers to Denzel Boston, bringing the score to 14-10.
Rutgers increased their lead at the end of the second quarter, just 30 seconds before halftime, when Athan Kaliakmanis connected with Ian Strong for a 15-yard touchdown, making it 14-3. This opportunity came after Rutgers’ initial 38-yard field goal attempt was blocked, but an illegal substitution call against Washington allowed Rutgers to keep possession and score.
Earlier in the second quarter, at 11:26, Kyle Monangai put Rutgers on the board for the first time with a one-yard touchdown run, after key plays from Kaliakmanis on that drive.
The game began with Washington taking a 3-0 lead on a 22-yard field goal, benefiting from a penalty that allowed them to advance closer to the end zone, although Rutgers’ defense held them back from scoring a touchdown.
In terms of player availability for Rutgers, quarterback AJ Surace, linebacker Mohamed Toure, and defensive lineman JaSire Peterson were all declared out for the game. Running back Ja’shon Benjamin and offensive lineman Shedrick Rhodes were listed as questionable.
The game was broadcast live on FOX, with streaming available on platforms like Fubo and SlingTV.
As for the teams’ upcoming schedules, Rutgers will face Nebraska next, while Washington’s schedule includes a matchup against Michigan.