Football fans gear up for the 2024 Rate Bowl, as the Rutgers Scarlet Knights are set to face the Kansas State Wildcats on December 26 at Chase Field in Phoenix, Arizona. This matchup, featuring teams from the Big Ten and Big 12, promises to be pivotal for both squads hoping to cap their seasons on a high note.
The Rutgers Scarlet Knights come in with a 7-5 record, having displayed resilience by winning three of their final four games, including decisive victories over Maryland and Michigan State. This bowl appearance marks Rutgers' second consecutive postseason showing, and they are eager to secure their first eight-win season since 2014. On the other hand, the Kansas State Wildcats (8-4) entered bowl season with higher expectations but stumbled toward the finish line, losing three of their last four contests. Despite their recent struggles, the Wildcats remain favored by seven points, reflecting confidence from odds makers and analysts alike.
Kickoff is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. ET, and fans can catch the action on ESPN.
One of the most significant storylines for the Scarlet Knights is the absence of star running back Kyle Monangai. The senior, who has been instrumental for the offense with his rushing stats, will not participate due to injury, leaving Rutgers without their leading rusher. Monangai was pivotal to Rutgers’ ground game, averaging 5.0 yards per carry and totaling 1,279 rushing yards with 13 touchdowns. His absence will undoubtedly put more pressure on quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis, who has struggled with completion percentage this season at 121st nationally.
Conversely, Kansas State will also be missing key personnel but retains standout sophomore quarterback Avery Johnson. Johnson, who showed promise last season when named MVP of the Pop-Tarts Bowl, threw for over 2,500 yards this season, demonstrating his potential as the offensive leader. He is expected to exploit Rutgers’ weaknesses, especially considering their difficulties against powerful rushing attacks. Even without star running back DJ Giddens, who declared for the NFL Draft, Kansas State’s running game, led by Dylan Edwards, has been solid, averaging 5.6 yards per carry.
The Wildcats' success on the ground could prove decisive, especially since Rutgers has struggled defensively, ranking 103rd nationally against the run. Opponents have averaged five yards per carry against the Scarlet Knights, making it likely Kansas State will attempt to dominate the ground game early and often. Reports indicate Kansas State's offensive line could improve significantly after having time to regroup during bowl preparations, enhancing their rushing attack against Rutgers' vulnerable defense.
Betting lines also reflect the uncertainty surrounding this matchup. With Kansas State favored by seven points and the over/under set at 52, experts are weighing both teams’ strengths and weaknesses carefully. While Rutgers has demonstrated resiliency, many believe their lack of offensive explosiveness without Monangai could hinder their chances to keep pace with Kansas State, especially if the Wildcats establish their run early.
Experts suggest Kansas State's well-rounded roster, strong offensive line, and Johnson’s playmaking abilities give them the edge. Notably, one expert remarked, "Kansas State can reset its narrative and kick off 2025 hype with a strong showing featuring Johnson and Edwards." This sentiment mirrors the general consensus favoring the Wildcats to win and cover the spread.
On the Scarlet Knights' side, head coach Greg Schiano's track record, including past successes against higher-ranked opponents, presents a glimmer of hope. Schiano is 6-2 overall as head coach in bowl games, demonstrating his ability to prepare players for postseason matches. Should the Knights’ defense effectively contain the potent Kansas State attack, they could remain competitive.
Notably, Kansas State also boasts one of the nation's top rushing defenses, ranked 29th overall and specializing in minimizing opponents' ground success. This tactical advantage indicates Rutgers may struggle to find consistency on offensive plays without their primary rusher.
Given these circumstances, oddsmakers are leaning heavily toward the Wildcats to secure victory. Predictions from various analysts lean toward Kansas State winning decisively, with one stating, "Kansas State pulls away with a comfortable win, but the only question left is whether they’ll get enough help from Rutgers to push this point total to the over." Analysts expect Kansas State to dominate both on the scoreboard and with their game strategy.
Looking forward, the 2024 Rate Bowl not only serves as the season's climax for both teams but also as a stepping stone toward future aspirations. The winner will likely carry momentum over the offseason, with their performance leaving lasting impressions on coaches, players, and fans alike. Expect Kansas State to employ their depth and offensive capabilities to emerge victorious against Rutgers, who will need to put forth their best performance to have any chance of winning.
Final Prediction: Kansas State 31, Rutgers 17.
