PISCATAWAY – It has been a considerable span since Rutgers football graced the rankings, precisely twelve years.
Could this protracted drought come to an end soon? While the possibility exists, the Scarlet Knights must undertake substantial efforts to achieve this milestone. Furthermore, assistance from other teams vacating their positions will be crucial.
Following their hard-fought 26-23 victory against Virginia Tech on Saturday, Rutgers improved to a commendable 3-0. However, this achievement has yet to translate into any votes in the Associated Press Top 25 poll.
For Rutgers to earn a coveted spot in the rankings, a decisive victory against Washington is imperative this Friday at SHI Stadium (8 p.m., FOX). The likelihood of garnering votes or securing a place in the Top 25 hinges significantly on the margin of their victory over the Huskies—the more convincing the win, the greater the chances of swaying voters nationwide in favor of the Scarlet Knights.
Additionally, the fate of Rutgers will be influenced by the performances of teams currently teetering on the brink of the Top 25. Washington State, for instance, is lurking just outside with 67 votes; a victory over Boise State, which is presently ranked No. 25, would likely cement their place. Arkansas, with three votes, faces No. 24 Texas A&M this weekend, where a win would also propel them into the rankings. Arizona, with two votes, could break into the Top 25 with an upset against No. 10 Utah. Meanwhile, Indiana, holding 63 votes, could also secure a spot with a win over Maryland.
In light of these dynamics, it’s evident that Rutgers requires assistance from teams positioned above them in the rankings. However, triumphing on the road against Nebraska—recently ousted from the rankings following a loss to No. 19 Illinois—could dramatically alter their trajectory.
A potential 5-0 record, featuring victories over Virginia Tech, Washington, and Nebraska (in hostile territory), would nearly assure Rutgers a spot in the Top 25.
First and foremost, though, the Scarlet Knights must focus on executing their game plan effectively on the field.