Rutgers Football: Scarlet Knights look for success in 2018

PISCATAWAY, NJ - SEPTEMBER 30: The Rutgers Scarlet Knights mascot stands on the field during a game against the Ohio State Buckeyes on September 30, 2017 at High Point Solutions Stadium in Piscataway, New Jersey. Ohio State won 56-0. (Photo by Hunter Martin/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** /

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(Photo by Jeff Zelevansky/Getty Images) /

Defensive backs

Another anchor point to the Rutgers defense this season will be in the secondary, as they return a lot of parts in the pass defense game.

Junior K.J. Gray made appearances in ten games and had four starts at the free safety position. He was a valuable contributor to the defense and led the secondary with 58 tackles. He also had 1.5 sacks and three tackles for loss while deflecting five passes and catching five interceptions.

Redshirt senior Isaiah Wharton will be another large factor for the Rutgers secondary in 2018. He started all 12 games last season at cornerback. While he did not record an interception to his tally, he broke up nine passes and had 40 tackles.

Wharton will make a nice pairing with senior Blessaun Austin, who is coming off knee surgery after tearing his ACL against Nebraska in September. Because of the injury, he only played in four games, but he has been dependable in the secondary as he has started in almost every game since his freshman season. In 2017, he recorded 12 total tackles and an interception in limited action. Undoubtedly, his veteran experience will help a resurgent Scarlet Knights squad.

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