ESPN deems Rutgers one of offseason’s big winners

Rutgers was one of the Big Ten’s surprise teams last season. Greg Schiano led the Scarlet Knights to their first winning season in a decade, including a Pinstripe Bowl victory over Miami.

ESPN Staff writer named Rutgers among multiple offseason winners for their work on the recruiting trail. Schiano brings in his second-best class during his stint in Piscataway, hoping to build on a solid showing last season.

The Scarlet Knights bring in a class that’s very in-state heavy. Wide receiver Michael Thomas III and offensive tackle Ja’Elyne Matthews are four-star recruits who hope to give Rutgers depth and their respective positions for years to come.

As a defensive-minded head coach, Schiano brings in some major talent to that side of the ball. Safety Tariq Hayer along with linebackers D.J. McClary committed to the Scarlet Knights over the summer, while they added Chase Linton and Braxton Kyle on the defensive line along the way.

Last year’s success as well as this offseason’s impressive recruiting class has many believing Rutgers is a Big Ten program on the rise. The Scarlet Knights are also gifted with a very manageable schedule this upcoming season, avoiding Michigan, Ohio State, Oregon, Penn State, and Iowa.

They will open the season in Piscataway against the Howard Bison on Aug. 29 and will open Big Ten play on Sept. 27, hosting the Washington Huskies.