The 2024 Rate Bowl is here, bringing excitement to college football fans as the Rutgers Scarlet Knights prepare to face off against the Kansas State Wildcats at Chase Field in Phoenix, Arizona. Scheduled for December 26 at 4:30 p.m. CT, both teams have the opportunity to end their seasons on a high note after facing challenges during the final stretch of their regular campaigns.
The Scarlet Knights, with their 7-5 season record, began the year strong with four consecutive victories. Unfortunately, they suffered four losses before rebounding with three wins out of their last four games, excluding one narrow defeat against Illinois. Kansas State, on the other hand, started the season promisingly at 7-1 and looked like playoff contenders. But they stumbled badly late, losing three of their last four games, including their final regular-season outing against Iowa State.
On the opt-out front, both teams have lost key players. From Rutgers, wide receiver Chris Long has entered the transfer portal, marking the absence of one of their most promising offensive players, who recorded 163 receiving yards on 11 receptions this season. Other departing Scarlet Knights include Wesley Bailey, Timmy Hinspeter, and Thomas Amankwaa, all of whom have also entered the portal.
For Kansas State, the list of opt-outs is more extensive, reflecting the impact of the transfer portal. Quarterback Ta’Quan Roberson headlines the departures, along with other significant contributors like Tre Spivey and right tackle Carver Willis. The latter's exit is particularly notable as he helped protect quarterback Avery Johnson throughout the season. The Wildcats depend on their retained talent to lead them to victory and redirect their future prospects.
“I think that's the biggest thing is the players you're able to retain and keep here,” expressed Kansas State coach Chris Klieman, showcasing gratitude toward the dedication of his remaining players. Speaking on the importance of this bowl game, junior nose tackle Damian Ilalio pointed out, “This game is the most important game of our lives because it's the next one.” This attitude may reflect the teams' greater emphasis on finishing the year strong.
On game day, fans can expect vibrant action at Chase Field, where enhancements have transformed the ballpark for football. Erik Moses, executive director and CEO of the Fiesta Sports Foundation, urged fans to enjoy the festivities around the game—“You want to give people an opportunity to see some of our fantastic city, and it is an affordable ticket and lots of fun.” Tickets for the game start at just $14, making it accessible for many fans eager to witness this athletic showdown.
The airing of the game will be on ESPN, with the commentary provided by Wes Durham on play-by-play, supported by analyst Tom Luginbill and sideline reporter Dana Boyle. Radio coverage will be available on various platforms, including WFAN and FOX Sports New Jersey, ensuring fans can stay updated no matter where they are.
Both teams, for different reasons, are eager to make this game count. The Wildcats aim to turn around their late-season fortunes and send their seniors off with pride as they close out their college football journeys. Senior offensive lineman Taylor Poitier emphasized this sentiment, saying, “All the guys ... it's just one last opportunity with each other.”
Meanwhile, Rutgers seeks to capitalize on their recent success, focusing on their three wins from the last four games to build momentum heading toward this finish line. Klieman’s comments about upcoming changes and young talent taking center stage, alongside Poitier’s reflections on the group’s collective legacy, add depth to the narrative of the importance of bowl game participation.
With pressures from both sides and the promise of festive competition, fans will want to tune in to see which team capitalizes on this opportunity. The stakes are high, not just for individual players aiming to impress but also for the programs as they look to adjust and improve for the coming seasons. Amidst the excitement and spectacle of the Rate Bowl, one truth remains clear: this game could be the pivotal moment each team needs to build upon as they approach future challenges.
