NCAA Football Preview - Rutgers Scarlet Knights

By Pat Taggart Aug 17, 2007, 17:20 GMT

OFFENSE: With three senior starters back along the offensive line, a Heisman Trophy candidate at tailback and an experienced big game quarterback, the Rutgers offense should be outstanding in 2007. Last season, the team averaged 29.8 ppg and was 15th nationally in rushing offense. It all starts with Ray Rice, who rushed for 1,794 yards and 20 touchdowns on 335 carries as a sophomore. He seems to get better with every carry and runs harder than anyone in the nation. Quarterback Mike Teel wasn't asked to do much last season, and while he was a bit shaky early on, he played well over the final few weeks. Kenny Britt and Tiquan Underwood are two capable targets on the outside.

DEFENSE: Because of Rice, opponents went into games against Rutgers fearing the offense, but it was the defense of the Scarlet Knights that truly defined the season. In fact, the club finished eighth nationally in scoring defense, allowing only 14.3 ppg, and fourth in total defense. Six starters are back in place, and no one is more important to the success of the club than tackle Eric Foster. The First Team All-American is a beast with a consistent motor. Jamaal Westerman had eight sacks from his end position and should be able to at least maintain that figure. The defensive backfield returns three of four starters, extremely good news considering Rutgers finished sixth nationally in 2006 against the pass. There are concerns at linebacker, but tremendous athletes are ready to step in. Head coach Greg Schiano is passionate about defense, and he will have one of the nations best units this fall.

SPECIAL TEAMS: Jeremy Ito is one of the best placekickers in the nation, and he figures to add significantly to his career total of 57 field goals made. Ito is also an asset on kickoffs, booting 29 touchbacks.

OUTLOOK: Rutgers will be every bit as good as last season. The non-conference schedule is favorable, and the fact that West Virginia has to travel to New Jersey is a plus. The result of that game and the finale at Louisville will determine the Big East crown. Schiano has built a tremendous program and the sky is the limit with regard to how good this team will be.

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