From Fast Start to Major Struggles: Rutgers Face USC Trojans' Defensive Woes
From Fast Start to Major Struggles: Rutgers Scarlet Knights Face USC Trojans’ Defensive Woes
As the 2024 NCAA football season unfolds, two teams with high hopes now find themselves grappling with adversity. The Rutgers Scarlet Knights and the USC Trojans meet this weekend, both desperate for a turnaround. The Scarlet Knights, who began the season with four consecutive victories, now confront a three-game losing streak. Meanwhile, the Trojans continue to face significant defensive challenges, hoping to regain their footing.
Rutgers Scarlet Knights: From Promising Start to Dismal Performance
The Scarlet Knights kicked off their season with an impressive 4-0 record, including wins against FCS Howard and Akron, alongside notable victories over Virginia Tech and Washington. However, reality hit hard as they dropped three straight games, culminating in a narrow 35-32 loss to UCLA last Saturday.
Injuries have plagued Rutgers, particularly on the defensive line, impacting key players like Aaron Lewis and Tyreem Powell. These absences contributed to the Knights allowing a staggering 42 points against Wisconsin and 35 to UCLA. Before the UCLA game, the offense struggled to find the end zone, scoring only one touchdown in losses to Nebraska (14-7) and Wisconsin.
Despite the recent offensive struggles, quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis rebounded with a solid performance against UCLA, completing 18 of 30 passes for 287 yards, one interception, and a rushing touchdown. Running back Kyle Monangai also shone, rushing for 106 yards and three touchdowns.
Statistically, Rutgers’ defense has faced challenges, giving up an average of 385.3 yards per game, ranking 90th nationally. They allow 215 passing yards per game and struggle against the run, giving up 170.3 rushing yards on average. Offensively, they average 381.3 yards per game, ranking 77th, with a balanced attack that includes 190.3 rushing yards and 191 passing yards.
USC Trojans: Defensive Struggles Continue
The USC Trojans come into this matchup reeling from three straight losses, with their only conference win coming against Wisconsin (38-21) on September 28. Their recent defeat at Maryland (29-28) was particularly painful, as they squandered a 21-7 halftime lead, scoring only one touchdown in the second half. This inability to maintain leads has haunted USC, as they’ve lost four games by a mere 14 points, often leading at halftime.
Quarterback Miller Moss has taken the brunt of the criticism, throwing six interceptions over the past five games. Despite this, he has put up respectable numbers, throwing for 1,954 yards and 14 touchdowns this season. The Trojan defense has been the Achilles’ heel, particularly in critical moments. Against Maryland, they allowed quarterback Billy Edwards to torch them for 373 passing yards and two touchdowns.
USC’s defensive statistics reveal a team struggling to contain opponents. They allow 22 points per game, with 138.1 rushing yards and 223 passing yards per game. However, their real issues lie in advanced metrics, such as allowing 5.9 yards per play (91st) and a completion percentage against of 70% (131st).
Offensively, USC averages 434 total yards per game, ranking 36th nationally, and boasts a strong passing game with 288.6 yards per game, placing them 22nd.
Conclusion
As Rutgers and USC prepare for their upcoming clash, both teams must address their shortcomings. For Rutgers, the focus will be on overcoming defensive injuries and revitalizing their offensive rhythm. The Trojans, on the other hand, must shore up their defense and find a way to capitalize on their offensive strengths.
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