Opinion
3 min read

Rutgers Scarlet Knights Eye Redemption Against Minnesota Golden Gophers

As the Rutgers Scarlet Knights prepare to face off against the Minnesota Golden Gophers at Williams Arena, fans are eager to see if their team can bounce back from a recent defeat. The upcoming game on February 18 is not just another date on the calendar; it's a chance for redemption.


Mar 2, 2023; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Golden Gophers guard Ta'lon Cooper (55) passes against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights during the first half at Williams Arena. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports

In their last outing on December 23, RUTG fell short against Mississippi State Bulldogs with a final score of 60-70. Despite showing promise in the first half, matching the Bulldogs point-for-point at 29 each, they couldn't maintain that momentum into the second half. The statistics reveal some of RUTG's challenges: they shot only 37 percent from the field and an abysmal 18 percent from beyond the arc. Their free throw percentage was strong at 79 percent, but it wasn't enough to secure victory.


However, there is reason for optimism among RUTG fans. Looking back at their home game on December 16 against LIU Sharks provides a glimpse into what this team is capable of when they're firing on all cylinders. They dominated with an impressive scoreline of 83-61 and showcased their offensive prowess by shooting nearly half of their field goals successfully and racking up points in paint (52). Their defense was also formidable with eight blocks and nine steals.


Mar 2, 2023; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Golden Gophers forward Jamison Battle (10) reacts to his shot against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights during the second half at Williams Arena. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports

The Scarlet Knights' performance against Seton Hall Pirates on December 10 further emphasizes their potential for greatness. They won with a solid ten-point margin (70-63), thanks in part to an exceptional three-point shooting percentage (50 percent) and overall defensive strength that included ten blocks.


The key takeaway for RUTG as they head into Minneapolis is consistency. If they can replicate the level of play seen in victories over LIU Sharks and Seton Hall Pirates while addressing weaknesses shown against Mississippi State Bulldogs—particularly in three-point shooting—they have every chance to come out victorious.


Mar 2, 2023; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Rutgers Scarlet Knights guard Caleb McConnell (22) drives to the basket while Minnesota Golden Gophers forward Dawson Garcia (3) defends during the second half at Williams Arena. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports

Minnesota Golden Gophers will not make it easy though; playing at home gives them an edge that cannot be underestimated. But if history has taught us anything, it's that RUTG has both resilience and skill needed to overcome such challenges.


Fans should mark their calendars for what promises to be an exciting clash between two determined teams looking to assert themselves this season. The game is scheduled for February 18th at Williams Arena in Minneapolis, MN starting at 5:30 PM local time (6:30 PM Eastern Time). For those unable to attend in person, you can catch all the action live on BTN channel number 610 – don't miss what could be one of Rutgers' most pivotal games this season!

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