By : Sammy Corsa
(Photo/Sammy Corsa)
It was a big day in Piscataway on Saturday as Rutgers (4-5) took on
Maryland (4-4) in a hard-fought Big Ten matchup.
Rutgers came into Week 11 looking to bounce back after a tough 35-13 loss
to Illinois, and they delivered in a major way. Wide receiver Ian Strong
became the story of the afternoon, hauling in 3 touchdowns to lead the
Scarlet Knights’ offense.
Both offenses had a day, combining for nearly 900 total yards. Rutgers piled
up almost 500 yards, powered by Antwan Raymond’s monster 240 yards on
the ground, while Maryland countered with 403 total yards, including an
impressive 305 rushing yards behind quarterback Malik Washington’s
164-yard performance.
Saturday felt like Ian Strong’s arrival moment. In his last five games, Strong
hadn’t found the end zone once, but against Maryland, he broke through in
dominant fashion. The junior wideout hauled in three touchdowns, each one
building more energy and confidence than the last. By his final score, it was
clear he wasn’t just making plays, he was making a statement.
This felt like one of Rutgers’ most complete performances of the season, a
mix of toughness, rhythm, and big-play energy. Quarterback Athan
Kaliakmanis commanded the offense spreading the ball around to his
receiving corps consisting of Stong, KJ Duff, DT Sheffield, and Kenny
Fletcher Jr.. Kaliakmanis finished 13/20, 229 yards, and four touchdowns.
Though he threw 2 interceptions, he bounced back when it mattered most.
With a bye week ahead, the Scarlet Knights now turn their focus to a
daunting showdown with No. 1 ranked Ohio State.