Rutgers Favored Heavily in Friday Night Clash

The Rutgers Scarlet Knights are set to host the Howard Bison on Friday, September 25, 2026, with kickoff scheduled for 7:00 p.m. ET at SHI Stadium in Piscataway, NJ. Rutgers enters this matchup with an 0-3 record, having most recently lost to USC, while Howard stands at 1-2 after a significant defeat against Indiana.

The Scarlet Knights have struggled defensively in their winless start, allowing an average of 35.7 points per game. Their offense, however, has managed to score 25.7 points per game. Howard, conversely, averages 17.3 points and 86.0 rushing yards, but their passing completion rate is among the nation's lowest.

Rutgers is a substantial 43.5-point favorite in this contest. Quarterback Lonergan has shown flashes for Rutgers, throwing for 494 yards and five touchdowns in two starts, despite recent interceptions. Receiver Duff has been a consistent threat, catching a touchdown in all three games and accumulating 419 yards.

For Howard, quarterback Scroggins aims to improve his accuracy, having thrown for 467 yards and four touchdowns so far. He will target receivers Clark and Osborne, who have been reliable options. The Bison's defense, however, has allowed 55 points to Indiana and 28 to Richmond, presenting a potential opportunity for Rutgers' offense.

The game will be broadcast on BTN and can be streamed via FOX. This matchup presents Rutgers a significant opportunity to secure their first win of the season against a Howard team also looking to rebound from recent struggles.