Howard Takes on Rutgers: New Coach White Looks to Break Skid

Ted White Arrives at Howard as a Historic Hire

Ted White assumption of the Howard Bison head‑coaching job marks the 38th leader in program history. White, an alum, set MEAC passing yardage (9,808) and touchdown marks (92) during his playing days and earned first‑team Division I‑AA All‑America honors twice. He also captured the MEAC Player of the Year award and the Black College Football Player of the Year title in 1996.

White’s appointment received an immediate endorsement from NFL legend Doug Williams, who called the athletic director to push for his candidacy before the vacancy became public. Williams, now a special adviser for the Washington Commanders, praised White’s relentless work ethic and said no one deserved the role more. The endorsement underscores Howard’s focus on building a competitive program rather than courting nostalgia.

White brings a résumé that includes stints with Maryland, the Houston Texans and UCLA, indicating his comfort at both collegiate and professional levels. His hiring signals a drive for on‑field success and sustainable development for the Bison.

White’s Brief Rutgers Connection and Past Head‑to‑Head History

The only substantial coaching encounter White has had with Rutgers came in 2024 while serving as UCLA’s quarterback coach. His quarterback, Ethan Garbers, completed 32 of 38 passes for 383 yards and four touchdowns, securing a 35‑32 victory over the Knights in Piscataway. Earlier, White worked with Maryland for two separate seasons, 2021 and 2025, resulting in split outcomes: a Maryland win of 40‑16 and a Rutgers victory of 35‑20.

Howard’s overall record against Rutgers reads a lopsided 0‑6, with a combined score margin of 221‑60 that stretches back to a 56‑7 defeat in 2006. That long‑standing gap provides the backdrop for White’s first season and the urgency to change the narrative.

White’s personal drive to return to his alma mater often coincides with a “chip on the shoulder” mentality, a trait that can translate into heightened performance. While the odds heavily favor the Knights, the upcoming matchup could serve as a measuring stick for both White’s rebuilding plan and Rutgers’ consistency.

What’s at Stake for Both Programs

For Howard, a victory would not only snap a six‑game losing streak but also signal the start of a new era under a coach who has proven he can develop talent at the highest levels. For Rutgers, the game offers a chance to reinforce its dominance while evaluating whether a return to a familiar opponent uncovers any hidden vulnerabilities.

The broader picture involves White’s ability to translate his playing achievements into on‑field results quickly, and Rutgers’ focus on maintaining its status as a top‑tier program despite an increasingly competitive schedule. The outcome will shape recruiting narratives for both sides heading into the 2026 season.

As the teams prepare, fans can expect a contest that blends historical rivalry with a fresh coaching story. Whether Howard can finally break the skid remains to be seen, but the stakes are clear: a new beginning for the Bison and a test of resolve for the Knights.