Monday, September 07, 2009

Rutgers takes it on the chin, 47-15

Cincinnati QB Tony Pike threw for a career high 362 yards in leading the Bearcats to a 47-15 romp over the Scarlet Knights of Rutgers. What makes it slightly more ominous for Rutgers is that their defense was supposed to be a strong point.

When fifth-year senior Dom Natalie proved ineffective in the first half, Rutgers switched to true freshman Tom Savage to start the second half. The young man showed some promise but needs to take more snaps to get in sync with his receivers. They've got four games (Howard, Florida International, Maryland, and Texas Southern) before the Knights face another Big East opponent. They should iron out the defensive problems by then and Savage will have four additional games under his belt.

The Bearcats were Big East Champions last year. They look like they could be ready to reprise that role.

Rutgers started last year 1-5. They should not repeat that dismal start, but they could be in trouble against their Big East foes if they do not improve their play.

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