PHOENIX - The Rutgers Scarlet Knights walked away from the 2024 Rate Bowl with more questions than answers after suffering a devastating 44-41 loss to the Kansas State Wildcats on December 26 at Chase Field. The Scarlet Knights seemed poised for victory, leading 34-17 late in the third quarter, but watched as K-State mounted a thrilling comeback. This loss sends Rutgers back home with a combined season record of 7-6 and significant defensive concerns.
For much of the afternoon, it appeared as though the Scarlet Knights would finish their season on a high note, especially after their last few games had seen them pulling themselves back up from earlier struggles. Quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis was the steady hand guiding the team, having thrown for 2,459 yards and 17 touchdowns throughout the season. His performance was strong, but the inability of the defense to hold onto leads became painfully clear as the game progressed.
According to ESPN, "It was an impressive come-from-behind victory for K-State, which trailed 34-17 at the 4:22 mark of the third quarter." The Wildcats had been struggling throughout much of the game, leaving fans questioning how everything had unraveled for their team. During the final quarter, Kansas State’s offensive efforts were propelled by the exceptional performances of sophomore running back Dylan Edwards, who tallied 196 rushing yards and two touchdowns, earning him the Offensive MVP title. "Dylan Edwards shined brightest of all," ESPN noted, highlighting his performance not just as significant for the game, but also pivotal for the team’s end-of-season momentum.
Edwards' electrifying play included rushing for 65 yards followed by touchdown runs of 36 yards and 27 yards, showcasing his explosive abilities on the field. While Kansas State's defense had struggled early, they made necessary adjustments to limit the Scarlet Knights to just 82 yards throughout the second half. This adaptability proved to be the difference maker, allowing Kansas State to turn the game on its head when it mattered the most.
Despite their lead, Rutgers had to confront the unfortunate reality of their defensive lapses. After controlling the game for the first half and taking advantage of early lapses from K-State's defense, the Scarlet Knights seemed to lose focus. With five touchdowns scored on their first six drives, Rutgers felt like they had momentum on their side. But by the third quarter, things changed. "Rutgers created problems for [Kansas State] early on this game. The Scarlet Knights gained 319 yards and scored on five of its first six drives to take a 27-17 lead at halftime," as noted by ESPN. This early offensive explosion, unfortunately for them, wasn’t enough to secure the win.
The Wildcats' quarterback, Avery Johnson, who ended the game with 195 passing yards and three touchdowns, made history during the match as he became the all-time leader for touchdown passes at Kansas State. Johnson said, "I knew I had to step up and make plays, especially when things weren't going our way." His resolve during the close of the game showcased not just his ability to lead but also how important he was to his team's success this season.
On the other side, Rutgers head coach Greg Schiano expressed his disappointment. "We had the game under control, and we should have finished it. Our defense needed to hold strong, and we simply couldn’t do it," Schiano said. The reflective moment led to concerns about the changes necessary for the defense moving forward to avoid similar collapses.
Another curious point noted by analysts was the decision-making by Kansas State's head coach Chris Klieman during several key moments of the game. Going for two-point conversions when trailing may have seemed aggressive, but it left some scratching their heads, especially after missing two such attempts. "K-State went for two when it would have been more logical to kick for the extra point," reported ESPN. Thankfully for them, these decisions did not have lasting negative repercussions.
Final whistle blown, Kansas State hoisted the trophy high after their stunning comeback. "With this win, Kansas State finished the year 9-4 and heads toward the 2025 season with renewed momentum," ESPN noted. For Rutgers and head coach Schiano, who sported glasses to aid his coaching efforts during the game, much reflection will ensue over their offseason. Player availability will remain under scrutiny since it was reported, "the Big Ten did not publish a report for the game for the first time this season," along with key absences due to injuries.
For both squads, this game displayed not just the exciting unpredictability of college football, but also offered predictive lessons about growth and areas requiring improvement as they look forward to their respective futures.
