The 2023 Guaranteed Rate Bowl was a thrilling contest that unfolded on December 26th and featured the Rutgers Scarlet Knights facing off against the Kansas State Wildcats at Chase Field in Phoenix, Arizona. Rutgers entered the game with a 7-5 regular season record, while Kansas State boasted an impressive 8-4. The excitement in the stadium was palpable as fans cheered for their teams, but unfortunately for Scarlet Knights supporters, the game ended in a dramatic 44-41 defeat for Rutgers.
Game Overview: A Battle of Offenses
The game started at 5:30 PM ET and was broadcast live on ESPN. Both teams showcased their offensive talents early on, with Rutgers quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis stepping up by throwing for 170 yards and demonstrating his ability to lead a dynamic offense. On the other side, Kansas State’s quarterback Avery Johnson impressed by adding 2,517 yards and 22 touchdowns to his season totals. As the game progressed, it truly became a back-and-forth thriller with multiple lead changes.
First Half Highlights
Rutgers fired up their game early, scoring 27 points in the first half, marking their highest first-half score this season. One star of the game was Rutgers running back Antwan Raymond, who rushed for over 100 yards and had two touchdowns in the first half, showing that he could be a real game-changer. Their momentum was contagious, captivating the crowd’s eyes as they believed that victory might be within reach.
Second Half Struggles: A Technical Blow
However, things took a turn after halftime. A significant challenge for the Scarlet Knights emerged when their communication system faltered. The headset malfunction made it hard for the coaches to connect properly with players on the field, and Offensive Coordinator Kirk Ciarrocca had to shift his strategy to call plays from the sideline instead of from the press box. This breakdown in communication caused confusion and resulted in a drastic decline in Rutgers’ offensive performance. They were only able to gain 82 total yards in the second half compared to 319 yards in the first.
Closing Moments of the Game
As the final minutes ticked away, Kansas State seized control of the game, making key plays that would ultimately lead to their victory. The Wildcats’ success was highlighted by a crucial 36-yard touchdown run by Dylan Edwards that proved to be the dagger in Rutgers’ heart. The scoreboard reflected a tense 44-41 finish, leading the Scarlet Knights to end their season with a 7-6 record.
Rutgers’ Promising Season and Notable Performances
Despite the defeat, it is important to acknowledge the significant achievements by the Rutgers football team throughout the season. They scored over 40 points in consecutive games for the first time since 2005 and posted at least 30 points in four straight games, showcasing their offensive capabilities. Athan Kaliakmanis ended the season with 2,696 passing yards and tied for fifth-most touchdown passes in a season with 18. Additionally, running back Kyle Monangai completed the season with 1,279 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns, cementing himself as a crucial player for the Knights.
What’s Next for Rutgers Football?
As fans reflect on this challenging yet memorable season, they look forward to next year’s improvements and strategies. The coaching staff led by Greg Schiano will undoubtedly analyze this game and work diligently in the offseason. With numerous players rising to the occasion this year, Rutgers is expected to bounce back stronger, igniting hope among fans for a more successful season ahead.
Game Statistics
| Team | Score | Total Yards | Touchdowns |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rutgers Scarlet Knights | 41 | 401 | 6 |
| Kansas State Wildcats | 44 | 420 | 5 |
