Rutgers enters the 2025 season opener with cautious optimism and a clear sense of urgency as head coach Greg Schiano continues to rebuild a program seeking consistency and credibility within a newly shifting Big Ten landscape. Coming off a 7–6 campaign in 2024 that included a bowl appearance, the Scarlet Knights demonstrated progress offensively, but defensive issues and a lack of consistency in big moments held them back from competing with the conference’s upper tier. This year, Rutgers faces a challenging opener against defending MAC champion Ohio, and while the Knights are favored by three points, the margin reflects the tight expectations for a team that overhauled nearly its entire starting defense in the offseason. Quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis, the Minnesota transfer who took over the starting job late last season, returns with high expectations and a more familiar grasp of the system under new offensive coordinator Mike Johns, who promises a tempo-driven, aggressive attack. The backfield features depth and versatility with returning rusher Sam Brown V and change-of-pace options that can exploit weak tackling, while wide receiver Ian Strong leads a talented but still-developing receiving corps. The offensive line, though bolstered by veteran pieces, still needs to prove it can consistently protect the quarterback and win run-blocking matchups against disciplined defenses like Ohio.

Defensively, the biggest challenge for Rutgers will be integrating a largely new unit—nine of the eleven defensive starters from 2024 have moved on, leaving significant pressure on transfers and underclassmen to learn quickly and perform immediately. The front seven, particularly, remains untested at game speed, and Ohio’s experienced offensive front and balanced playcalling could stress Rutgers’ gap integrity and coverage communication. Special teams, traditionally a Rutgers strength under Schiano, must also reload after key departures, with kicker Jude McAtamney expected to return to form after an up-and-down 2024. The home-field environment at SHI Stadium should provide energy, especially with the fanbase eager to see the team take the next step, but Rutgers must avoid early-game mistakes that have plagued them in previous openers. A fast start will be critical—if Rutgers can force a turnover, hit an early deep shot, or set the tone with physicality on defense, they may rattle Ohio’s rhythm. Conversely, if the Knights allow Ohio to establish the tempo and control time of possession, they risk getting dragged into a field-position battle that favors the more cohesive Bobcats. With Big Ten play looming, this game isn’t just about winning—it’s about showing they can dominate a lower-conference opponent in all three phases. A cover and convincing performance would affirm the offseason changes were effective, while a shaky or narrow win could reinforce doubts about the team’s ceiling. For Schiano and his staff, this is the moment to show progress not just in record but in game-day execution, particularly in critical moments. The pressure is on, and how Rutgers responds on both sides of the ball will shape perceptions early in what’s poised to be a defining season.