Rutgers Takes On Howard In Season Opener

Rutgers’ 2024 slate features a curious sequencing, opening conference play against USC before wrapping up non‑conference duties with Howard. The Scarlet Knights clash with the Bison on Friday, September 25th at 7 p.m., a night game that kicks off the season’s crucial stretch. Howard enters the contest after a 5‑7 FCS campaign, having posted wins over Florida A&M, Morehouse, Hampton, Morgan State and Norfolk State, but they also suffered a demoralizing 55‑7 loss to Temple, their sole Power Four opponent.

Historically, Rutgers dominates the series, having met Howard three times with each resulting in double‑digit victories. The most recent meeting in 2024 ended 44‑7 in favor of the Knights. This streak underscores the Scarlet Knights’ superior depth and experience against FCS competition.

Howard’s Season Snapshot

In 2023, Howard compiled a 5‑7 overall mark and a 2‑3 record in MEAC play, securing victories against five historically strong HBCU programs. Their only foray into the FBS realm ended in a 55‑7 defeat at the hands of Temple, highlighting the gaps they must close. The Bison aim to build on those wins while addressing the defensive turnover that plagued the squad.

Howard’s Offensive Engine

Quarterback Tyriq Starks returns as the senior signal‑caller, completing 176 of 304 attempts for a 57.9% clip and 1,801 yards. He posted nine touchdowns and 12 interceptions, while also rushing 138 times for 193 yards and four scores. Leading rusher Anthonay Reagan Jr. carried the ball 122 times for 671 yards and nine touchdowns, averaging 5.5 yards per carry. Backup Travis Kearny added 80 carries for 318 yards and three touchdowns, averaging four yards per carry. On the receiving side, Andre Cooper II paced the unit with 23 catches for 364 yards and two touchdowns, while Breylin Smith recorded 29 receptions for 234 yards and a touchdown, and tight end Montrell Walker contributed 11 grabs for 162 yards and a touchdown.

Defensive Highlights and Question Marks

Howard suffered losses on defense via the transfer portal, missing both sack leaders and a top cornerback from last season. However, defensive tackle Kendrick Green remains, having posted 60 tackles and two interceptions last year. Transfer addition Semaj Pierre, a former Rice and Houston receiver, joins the unit after posting six catches for 12 yards in his lone season. Overall depth is thin, and limited data remains on other portal arrivals, leaving questions about the pass rush and secondary.

What to Expect from the Scarlet Knights

The Bison are expected to lean heavily on their ground attack, given their balanced backfield and modest passing numbers. If Rutgers imposes its defensive scheme early and stifles the run, the Knights should build a comfortable lead quickly. Based on the historical dominance—Rutgers has won all three prior meetings by double digits—a 30‑plus point victory is plausible. The key will be avoiding turnovers and keeping pressure on Howard’s inexperienced secondary.

Rutgers Football Schedule

The only listed game for the balance of the season is Nov. 28 versus Michigan State. This contest caps the regular season and will serve as a final tune‑up before any postseason considerations. The schedule entry provides a clear endpoint for the Knights’ current campaign.

With Howard’s offense centered on a strong running game and an inexperienced pass unit, Rutgers’ defensive front will have a prime opportunity to dominate the line of scrimmage. Expect the Scarlet Knights to impose their tempo early, generate sustained drives, and keep the pressure on a Bison squad still searching for identity after significant roster changes. If the offense clicks and the defense stays disciplined, a comfortable victory seems highly likely.