AJ Surace is the backup quarterback for the Rutgers football team. He is a highly touted recruit who joined the team as an early enrollee last year.

How has Surace prepared for the 2025 season?

Surace has worked hard to learn the Rutgers offense, studying film and picking the brain of starting QB Athan Kaliakmanis. He also overcame an injury that limited his throwing last season, using the time off to focus on his rehabilitation and mental preparation.

Why is Rutgers coach Greg Schiano confident in Surace?

Schiano says he is "very comfortable" with Surace, who has demonstrated a strong football IQ and a commitment to being ready if called upon as the Scarlet Knights' QB2.

Home / Sports / Rutgers Backup QB Surace Poised to Step Up if Needed

Rutgers Backup QB Surace Poised to Step Up if Needed

25 Aug

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Summary

Rutgers coach Schiano "very comfortable" with backup QB Surace
Surace absorbed offense during offseason, ready to contribute
Surace overcame injury that limited his throwing last season

Rutgers Backup QB Surace Poised to Step Up if Needed

As the Rutgers football team prepares for its season opener on August 25th, 2025, head coach Greg Schiano is expressing confidence in backup quarterback AJ Surace. Schiano says he is "very comfortable" with Surace, who has been working diligently to learn the offense and be ready to contribute if called upon.

Surace, a highly touted recruit out of high school, joined Rutgers as an early enrollee last year. He impressed during spring practices, but then suffered an upper-body injury prior to the 2024 season that limited his ability to throw. However, Surace used that time off the field to double down on his film study and rehabilitation, maximizing his preparation.

Now, as the 2025 season approaches, Surace feels "really good about the offense" and is excited for the opportunity ahead. He has been able to learn from starting quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis, picking his brain on everything from footwork to leadership. Schiano believes Surace's strong football IQ, developed from being the son of a longtime college head coach, has also been a valuable asset.

While Rutgers hopes to avoid needing Surace to see extensive playing time this season, the coaching staff is confident that the backup QB will be ready if called upon. Surace's offseason dedication and commitment to improving his consistency have positioned him well to step up and contribute for the Scarlet Knights.

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