The Washington Huskies Look to Avenge Last Year’s Heartbreaker Against Rutgers
The Washington Huskies look to avenge one of their worst losses of the 2024 season when they welcome the Rutgers Scarlet Knights to Husky Stadium. Kicker Grady Gross had a nightmare game, missing three field goals. The Huskies ended up losing 21–18, with Gross’ final miss coming on the last play of regulation.
Rutgers entered that matchup 3–0, while Washington was 3–1 following a demoralizing loss to Washington State. It marked the beginning of a frustrating road stretch in which the Huskies failed to win a single game away from Husky Stadium.
Fast forward a year, and these two programs find themselves in very different positions. The Scarlet Knights have undergone a total identity shift. Star running back Kyle Monangai is now with the Chicago Bears in the NFL, and quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis has developed into a legitimate passing threat. While Rutgers’ offense is much more explosive this season, its defense has taken a significant step back.
Washington, meanwhile, is receiving votes in the AP Top 25 and enters as a double-digit favorite. The Husky offense appears to have found its rhythm, especially after a strong second-half showing on the road at Maryland.
Matchup to Watch: Rutgers Passing Attack vs. the Husky Secondary
Athan Kaliakmanis has taken a major step forward and is capable of keeping Rutgers competitive in any game. He distributes the ball well, with four different players recording 10 or more receptions through the first five games. K.J. Duff and Ian Strong have combined for 59 receptions, 833 yards, and five touchdowns. Duff stands 6’6″, while Strong comes in at 6’3″.
Rutgers relies heavily on Kaliakmanis to push the ball downfield and outscore opponents due to its defensive struggles.
Washington has the size and physicality to match up with the Scarlet Knights’ big-bodied receivers, but Rutgers also features slot receiver D.T. Sheffield and tight end Kenny Fletcher as additional weapons. Washington’s slot defenders and safeties will need to stay disciplined against this balanced passing attack.
Prediction
Rutgers will come into Husky Stadium and put some points on the board. Kaliakmanis will extend plays and find soft spots in the defense. However, the Scarlet Knights’ defense will have a hard time keeping Washington in check. In what could turn into a shootout, expect Washington to have the upper hand thanks to playmakers on defense who can deliver in key moments.
Once the Huskies force turnovers and make Rutgers one-dimensional, they’ll be able to tee off on Kaliakmanis.
Final Score: Washington 45, Rutgers 24
